by Shane Conto, Staff Writer

What are the benefits of a great setting for a drama? One might think that if a film is focusing on the tensions between people, the setting might not be that important. The setting might not be necessary, but a great setting can help elevate a film in so many ways. But when a drama can maximize its setting on a deeper thematic level and leverage the unique features of that setting, real magic can happen. This new neo-western of sorts, Montana Story, utilizes “Big Sky Country” to its fullest. This scenic backdrop does well to elevate this story of estranged siblings finding one another again through loss. 

But what is the story that writer-directors Scott McGehee and David Siegel are trying to tell? A rancher is on his deathbed. His son, Cal (Owen Teague), is there to try and figure out the business with his father’s inevitable demise. His half-sister, Erin (Haley Lu Richardson), returns home after years for “closure” (she might not even know exactly why either). This is not an overly creative and bold story, but it is structured with great care and finesse, allowing the mysteries to slowly reveal themselves in organic and poignant ways. It’s a timeless story (this could have taken place whenever, with the Montana setting providing such a classic look) ripe with dramatic tension, as there is legitimate trauma still under the surface. The film rides high on its rich themes and emotional payoffs. 

But how do McGehee and Siegel maximize “Big Sky Country” for their moving drama? There are so many beautiful shots of the landscape that make it feel so classy and rich in quality. This epic landscape makes the smaller, more intimate drama even more so, as we feel trapped with these siblings while they are forced to confront their past. The pacing might feel a tad too methodical (which could stem from the long gazes at the beautiful landscape), but in general, Montana Story knows how to maximize the emotional richness of the narrative. McGehee and Siegel certainly have you feel quite a bit by the time the credits roll on this one.

But is it just the directors who invoke our emotions? This cast certainly does the trick. Richardson and Teague carry this film with incredible stature. They act well beyond their years as they confront the horrible things that tore them apart. The third act feels like one big Oscar highlight reel of these two doing their best to convey all the emotions that they can. Gilbert Owuor is a fine addition as their father’s nurse, as he provides great perspective, even if his character is a cliché that feels quite outdated. Throw in some fine supporting turns from Kimberly Guerrero, Eugene Brave Rock, and Asivak Koostachin, and you’ve got yourself quite the ensemble.

Does this beautiful drama out in “Big Sky Country” grip its audience? There are plenty of emotions to experience and beautiful vistas to see along the way. You won’t want to miss the two young leads and the performances that they offer up for this film. When it comes down to it, Montana Story is another quality film from the long track record of Bleecker Street.

Score: 8/10 

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