Lost Treasure Of The Valley

directed by:
Robert Husted
written by:
Robert Husted
genre:
Adventure, Comedy

Not everyone is going to agree with my review. Some may find I've been a tad generous; but even they will have to agree that this is an awesome short film. It's very rare for me to watch a film, indie or studio, that does the trick exactly the way I wish so many movies would. "Lost Treasure Of The Valley" had me smiling ear to ear almost the entire length, and I know I won't be alone. This film has it all. Adventure. Comedy and even a cheesy style and delivery that just worked for me. Two words - thumbs up.
On a quest to finish and publish his book, Jake spends his days taking photographs of abandoned shopping carts. No joke. Jake's book is about just that, abandoned shopping carts - and he's determined that's his ticket to riches. However, he can't seem to pay his rent or even get a job. With eviction looming over his head, Jake continues his photographic adventure and meets a man. An Indiana Jones type on a quest for treasure. The lost treasure of the valley to be exact. More importantly? He believes that the abandoned shopping carts Jake photographs, are the key to finding it. So begins the adventure.

I mean, I completely understand how ridiculous it all sounds written out. I also totally think that the very ridiculousness I've mentioned, is part of the reason this film is so funny. That and the equally ridiculous characters. But I'm not joking when I write that this film has it all. Even a questionable, but cool looking CG dragon named Slorg. Are the various graphics and special effects completely mind blowing? Not at all. Do they perfectly fit the film? You bet they do.
As does the acting which goes from pretty damn good, to slightly corn-ball. And again reader, yes. It all fits in and works. This is a movie that borrows heavily from, say, the Indiana Jones films. And it just feels right. Nicely paced and near perfectly pleasing. You won't for a second think there's any hint of seriousness here... and won't care one bit.
And that's the other thing this film gets right. It's meant to be silly-fun. "Lost Treasure Of The Valley" doesn't try to redefine a genre. Even some of the silly visuals fit perfectly with the theme. Don't however, for a second, think that this movie looks cheap. Quite the opposite. The production technicalities are sound. Impressive actually, for a low budget indie flick. When it's all said and done? What can I say except I had a blast. I'm sure most will. This is one of those rare movies that although I've already watched it, I would still go ahead and buy myself a hard copy. Excellent job to Robert Husted and his troupe of talented individuals. Well done.