Sequoia (2014)

Introduction
"Sequoia" is a 2014 American independent drama movie directed by Andy Landen, composed by Andrew Rothschild, and starring Aly Michalka, Dustin Milligan, and Todd Lowe. The film tells the story of a girl called Riley, who starts a life-changing journey to reconnect with nature and finds unexpected connections and relationships along the way. The movie premiered at the SXSW (South by Southwest) Film Festival and received combined reviews, with critics praising its performances and cinematography however criticizing its narrative structure.

Plot
Sequoia follows the story of 23-year-old Riley (played by Aly Michalka), an artist struggling with a terminal health problem who has actually chosen to end her life. After years of living under the shadow of her sickness, she decides to spend her remaining days in nature, particularly in the stunning Sequoia National Park in California. Understanding that her treatment options have actually gone out and not desiring her life to be managed by her terminal disease, she plans to commit suicide in the park.

Riley's journey begins when she comes across Ogden (played by Dustin Milligan), a man who also has a troubled past. After overhearing her talking about her plans, Ogden chooses to follow her into the park. Along their journey, they have various encounters with nature and wildlife, including bears. Initially, Ogden's existence annoys Riley as she wants to be left alone to carry out her plan. Nevertheless, as they hang around together while traversing the park, a genuine connection begins to form between the two.

Themes
The film checks out themes such as life and death, the value of individual connections and relationships, and the healing power of nature. Through Riley's journey in Sequoia National Park, she starts to find the charm in life and the significance of living in the moment. The film also highlights the power of human connection, love, and friendship, as Riley and Ogden's establishing bond permits them both to find new reasons to live and conquer their individual demons.

Furthermore, the movie provides an honest and raw representation of psychological health, taking on the delicate and taboo subject of suicide. It highlights the importance of seeking help and assistance, as well as comprehending the battles that other individuals might be going through. Sequoia likewise prompts conversations on the ethics and morality of assisted suicide, as Riley makes a conscious choice to end her life on her own terms.

Performances and Cinematography
Sequoia includes strong performances from the lead stars Aly Michalka and Dustin Milligan, who bring depth, feeling, and validity to their characters' struggles. The chemistry between the two leads ensures that the movie's main relationship feels genuine, which adds to the general emotional resonance of the story.

The movie's cinematography captures the awesome beauty of Sequoia National Park, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes in vibrant information. This not only highlights the significance of the park as a character in the story, however likewise helps to immerse the audience in the environment and comprehend why Riley is drawn to this specific location to find solace and peace.

Reception and Conclusion
"Sequoia" got mixed evaluations from critics, with appreciation provided to the performances and the film's representation of nature, but criticism focused on its narrative structure and pacing. Some viewers found the film to be a moving exploration of life, death, and personal connections, while others felt that it attempted to tackle a lot of styles at the same time, leading to a disjointed story.

In conclusion, Sequoia offers a genuine, aesthetically sensational, and thoughtful assessment of themes such as life, death, human connection, and the healing power of nature. Though it might be somewhat flawed in its narrative execution and pacing, the film is worth watching for its impressive performances and thought-provoking themes. "Sequoia" functions as an interesting meditation on the intricacies of the human experience and the value of seeking assistance and connection in the face of our most challenging minutes.

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