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Cast: Gary Weeks, Brian Tee, William Katt, Harrison Page, Chad Mathews, Cullen Douglas
Five years after the nuclear strikes of World War III devastated the United States, Sean Kalos (Gary Weeks) refuses to give up hope that his wife is alive, even though his search forces him to travel through areas ruled by brutal soldiers upholding martial law. A mysterious list containing his wife's name provides a clue, and Sean, aided by twitchy ally Jax (Brian Tee), begins to suspect not all survivors have been infected by a nuclear plague.
"Deadland" is similar to movies such as "Book of Eli" and "I am Legend" but with a much more human, realistic side to it than those two mentioned. Director, Damon O'Steen and Writer, Gary Weeks(who also stars in the film), give us a bleak yet hopeful look to what might happen if a nuclear war ever took place. Like all Independent films you go in to them looking for more as far as story goes and less in the way of special effects and action and that is what you get from "Deadland" but don't be fooled there is plenty of action on hand as well as some very good drama as Sean searches the country for his wife whom he believes is still alive out there. The film asks some interesting and scary questions, like what would you do if a disaster like this ever occurred. That is a pretty heavy question I know and one situation you would have to be in which none of us hope ever happens. I was really impressed with the production here, making a film like this could easily be a major failure without a large budget but everything about the film was fantastic including the cinematography, settings and the score, not to mention the amazing direction and top-notch acting.
The film demonstrates our fear as well as our hope in a post-apocalyptic world both visually and acting wise and is one that gets you thinking and it stays with you long after it is over. To go into major details about Sean's search for his family would only ruin the story but I can tell you I enjoyed this much more than the two similar films I mentioned earlier. This is another example of making a good film regardless of budget, I can't speak for those involved in making the film but what I got out of it was a labor of love project from everyone involved. Little gems like this don't come around too often so I highly recommend picking this up if you're a fan of the genre. The cast was terrific here including, Gary Weeks, Brian Tee and William Katt, it is nice to see him again on screen. The film played some Festivals across the country, it is too bad it didn't receive a wider release but at least now it is available for everyone to see and one that should not be missed. You can put the DVD in your Netflix queue or you can buy the DVD HERE. The DVD is pretty much barebones but it's worth the price for the movie alone.
Released by Phase 4 Films/Lightning Entertainment
**** Out Of *****