by Henry Pham
Unknown actors Randy McDowell (I Can Only Imagine) and Jody Thompson (Selma, The Founder) receive their main roles as town sheriffs, Shepherd Mills and Ronnie Long. In addition, they also serve as the film’s head writers. Formerly titled “Coal River,” Down River takes place in the small town of Fisher County, and focuses on a small-town sheriff and his deputy who are drawn to an abandoned farmhouse deep in the coal-mining mountains of southern West Virginia to investigate a crime. But as they dig deeper, buried secrets and fragmented clues threaten to tear the town and the sheriff’s sanity apart.
Brian Barnard and Tommy Walton are the directors of the film. The story is subtle, despite cotaining some low-budget atmosphere. It is sharp, dark, haunting, and cunning. My favorite parts of this film are the suspense and mystery that keep you guessing. Additionally, it feels like a drama cop movie that was inspired by ordinary cop drama movies and shows. In fact, it ultimately provides a detective-noir atmosphere based on the flashback scenes present in the film, which are easy to follow, and the impressive camera work. There isn’t much bad language used, while there are predictable twists and plot holes along the way. The cinematography is great, while the dialogue is powerful and very well-written.
Down River is a great drama, cop thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. My way of describing the movie is like I’m a young child who is too picky while selecting where to eat, similar to choosing what movie to watch for everyone. There’s nothing there and nothing frightening except you and your imagination. Thanks to the acting cast and the filmmaking team, this movie does a perfect job of keeping you on your toes throughout the entire story. The film runs about 95 minutes, which is pretty short for a drama thriller. It is a movie that keeps on giving, and it will leave you with an engaging impression. It may not be perfect, but at least it’s a decent choice for thriller fans and thrill seekers. I would highly recommend this movie to family, colleagues, and friends.
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