Review of Among Ravens (2014) by Hera K — 23 Jul 2014

A blended dysfunctional family spends independence weekend at a lake house in this awkward dramedy. The relationships between characters are well defined, the characters themselves are appropriated to their appropriate box of stereotype. I appreciated the dark humor and found myself the only one in the theater snickering a few times. I would say everybody's performances were good, obviously Johnny Sequoia is loaded with talent and a richness beyond her years, but even with the level of talent and quality in performances the characters were difficult to care about. The only one I truly felt came off remotely likeable was Madison, Natalie Imbruglia who played the sales girl at the jewlry store. Visually Among Ravens was stunning, the camera makes you feel like you are there.

I understood the metaphors and symbolism but wished the plot points had translated into an actual story with a problem and solution. The film serves up plenty of problems, and would make those who relate to the eccentric cast of characters reflect upon the authenticity of their lives, but does not provide hope. Which I feel was the point intended. Instead it leaves you feeling like you are recovering from having the wind knocked out of you by falling out of tree, and trying to get up only realizing you sprained your ankle, BAD. At the same time, I love it because it's a rebellion, a non traditional pussy slice of life, and if you can find humor in everyone's misery, light a blunt and enjoy the show.