Director: Brian Kirk
Starring: Emma Thompson, Judy Greer
Running Time: 98 minutes
Running Time: 98 minutes
Synopsis: In northern Minnesota, Barb (Emma Thompson) drives into the wilderness towards a secluded lake, where many decades ago she enjoyed an idyllic first date with her late husband Karl. She stumbles upon the isolated cabin of unhinged couple Purple Lady and Camo Jacket (Judy Greer and Marc Menchaca), and finds kidnapped teenager Leah (Laurel Marsden) tied up in their basement. Barb is a resourceful wilderness survival expert and refuses to abandon Leah, despite Purple Lady's grim determination to kill them both.
What Works Well: The frigid expanse of snow-covered forest terrain (filmed in Finland) is a perfect backdrop for a sinister conspiracy, and director Brian Kirk exploits the inhospitable landscape to good effect. Emma Thompson (calm and cerebral) and Judy Greer (dangerously frantic) create a good rivalry, encompassing both physical face-offs and thinking-ahead plotting. The flashbacks to Barb's life with husband Karl add poignancy.
What Does Not Work As Well: Once revealed, Purple Lady's plans for Leah are just too far-fetched, undermining the premise. Barb overcomes some serious injuries Rambo-style, Purple Lady's sniper skills are wayward when most needed, and some side-characters who should know better exhibit foolish behaviour in service of the script.
Key Quote:
Barb (to Leah): Heck, all's I'm sayin' is... . we don't know what's comin'. We never really do, but it don't matter. We don't quit.
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