I found this movie on Showtime by chance and I'm glad I did. i used to live in Minnesota, so I had heard of International Falls and there was the comedian storyline, so those two elements drew me in, not quite sure what to expect. This movie release was probably lost in the COVID shuffle, which is too bad because I think it's a nice little indie project that really packs a wallop in the third act.
Love the clear sense of place showcased (especially impressive since half the movie was shot in Santa Clarita). The town becomes a character, especially when Tim and Dee venture out on to the frozen ice--that was a nice sequence. Can't believe that they had David Koechner originally cast as Tim---I don't think that would have worked.
The film isn't perfect. I don't believe how polished a comedian Dee becomes with only two performances under her belt. And they could have easily trimmed a couple minutes towards the end (for example, do we really need to see Dee moving into her own new place?). It seems like the director can't decide where to end the movie.
But "International Falls" is far superior to the Tom Hanks/Sally Fields "Punchline," which mined similar territory long ago. Good job all around. Yes, it's talky, but listen to what the characters are saying. Lots of heart and wisdom here. Worth your time.
Love the clear sense of place showcased (especially impressive since half the movie was shot in Santa Clarita). The town becomes a character, especially when Tim and Dee venture out on to the frozen ice--that was a nice sequence. Can't believe that they had David Koechner originally cast as Tim---I don't think that would have worked.
The film isn't perfect. I don't believe how polished a comedian Dee becomes with only two performances under her belt. And they could have easily trimmed a couple minutes towards the end (for example, do we really need to see Dee moving into her own new place?). It seems like the director can't decide where to end the movie.
But "International Falls" is far superior to the Tom Hanks/Sally Fields "Punchline," which mined similar territory long ago. Good job all around. Yes, it's talky, but listen to what the characters are saying. Lots of heart and wisdom here. Worth your time.