Branded (2017)

Branded Poster

In this post-apocalyptic-western, Alexander Dante has lived the past 10 years in exile for the killing of Edwin, his beloved brother. Then one day he's astounded to receive a letter, purportedly from Edwin. The letter states Edwin now lives in the distant village shown on the enclosed map. At first, Alexander dismisses the letter as a hoax but there's something about the letter that rings true. He treks through a hard and hostile land that at long last opens up into a tranquil village. There, he's stunned to confront the impossible: his brother is very much alive. Alexander is overjoyed to see his brother but he is tormented as he knows he has killed him. Now Alexander must root out the truth -- whatever the consequences.

Introduction
"Branded" is a 2017 film directed by Michael Duni. It is a suspense thriller that combines aspects of criminal offense and mystery within its story. Set in the heart of the contemporary western world, the film is a profound exploration of advertising, capitalism, and their darker implications on societies. The movie starred Jeremy London, Jason London, Susan Duerden, and Masiela Lusha in pivotal roles.

Plot Summary
Jeremy London plays the function of Matthew, a guy working for a multinational business that focuses on marketing and advertising. Matthew's role in the company is crucial, designing and carrying out marketing campaign for customers that generate excellent revenues. However, Matthew becomes troubled as he starts seeing ominous visions. The visions illustrate the very same marketing iconography he creates daily, surpassing dramatically in people's lives, promoting a compulsive consumerist culture and tendency.

Inner Conflict and Descent to Paranoia
Matthew's visions heighten, transforming into his distinct lens through which he sees his world, moving in between reality and his surreal problems. His disillusionment with his job increases, as he recognizes that his work is feeding into an unhealthy fascination with materialism in society. He becomes paranoid about the damaging influence of ads, seeing viewed monsters in every billboard or commercial.

Deciphering of Personal Life
Matthew's individual life begins to unravel as his paranoia intensifies. His relationships, especially with his girlfriend Tamara (played by Masiela Lusha), start to fracture. On the other hand, in his expert life, his adamant opposition to advertising campaigns earns him numerous opponents. The international company chooses to frame him for a criminal activity he didn't devote, landing him in jail unjustly.

Struggle for Redemption
In prison, Matthew understands that the power of advertising depends on its ability to victimize human desires and vulnerabilities. Motivated by this discovery, he decides to stand against the devastating force of consumerism that is benefitting from these manipulative techniques. When he is launched, Matthew embarks on a battle to expose the true nature of marketing, fighting monstrous visions and powerful enemies in the real world.

Conclusion
"Branded" ends with Matthew removing the multinational corporation, though at a high individual expense. He loses his task, his love, and disowns whatever he as soon as stood for. The audience is left with an effective message about the prospective evil of uncontrolled consumerism and are forced to contemplate over their own functions in the story.

General Film Critique
"Branded" takes its viewers on a rollercoaster flight through a world ruled by brand names and advertisements. Its use of visual importance and metaphors effectively convey its anti-consumerism message. The thriller elements integrated with the protagonist's psychological journey make for an appealing watch. Performances, particularly that of Jeremy London, are good. Despite some defects, "Branded" stands as an impactful critique of consumerist culture.

Top Cast

  • Jeremy London (small)
    Jeremy London
    Alexander
  • Jason London (small)
    Jason London
    Edwin
  • Susan Duerden (small)
    Susan Duerden
    Kate
  • Masiela Lusha (small)
    Masiela Lusha
    Donna
  • Lee Perkins (small)
    Lee Perkins
    Judge Baxter
  • Burton Perez (small)
    Burton Perez
    Zee
  • Greg Maness (small)
    Greg Maness
    Jim
  • Tess Kartel
    Lena
  • Sean Riggs (small)
    Sean Riggs
    Douglas
  • Matt Thompson
    Evan
  • Juliet Reeves London (small)
    Juliet Reeves London
    Prisoner