Repatriation

FILM INFO:
In full military uniform, Chad is welcomed back to his Midwestern hometown by new and old friends alike...

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Repatriation

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Repatriation
( 2017 )
Written by: Douglas Mueller | Directed By: Douglas Mueller | Genre: Drama, Romance | Length: 77 minutes

Everybody wants a little attention sometimes. As humans, we crave it. Maybe even need it from time to time and Chad, the protagonist of this particular film, has the ultimate attention grabber. His uniform - that he proudly wears as he returns to his home town for a visit of sorts. His service makes him a hero to many, making his return crammed to the brim with well wishers, people going out of their way to show their respects, and just generally showering him with attention. Truth be told? I don't see a problem with that. When you essentially pledge your very life to protect the masses, why the hell not? Yet "Repatriation" is not a film about service. Not really. Douglas Mueller, who wrote and directed this production, sets out to tell a story about faces. The faces we show the world and the faces we hide. Especially those we try to hide. "Repatriation" is not only a film about self worth, but also of the horrible things we do for a glimpse of acceptance. Especially when we self examine, finding out first hand the person we actually are. This is a sad story. Just... not in the way you will initially think when watching the movie. The big "what the hell" moment during the final sequence is not really all that shocking, if you happened to notice the few clues spread throughout the film. At first you may feel what most would feel. Disgust. Then, as things sink in a little, you'll understand why this is such a sad story. Maybe even empathize at little. Or... maybe you won't. One thing is certain however, "Repatriation" is a fine film. Those tid-bits planted here and there are perfect foreshadowing elements, that seem innocent enough at the time, yet add up to only one conclusion. In the end, the entire film is summed up with one awkwardly sideways final shot. A picture is worth a thousand words.
From a production standpoint, "Repatriation" is a great looking movie, looking much larger than it probably was thanks in no small part to some great cinematography. Adding to the visual charm, was a slick edit that added the final polish to the story. Especially during the third act. Ryan Barton-Grimley as Chad, showcases some excellent natural ability as he leads up an equally splendid cast of supporting talent. Coming to mind right now, as I type these words, was a short performance from Antonio Brunetti as Lance. There was something totally real about the authenticity, or the general loathing he produces even with just a glance. It was quite memorable. All in all, this entire film was cast quite nicely, pushing forward what could have been a really long feeling movie.
About that... The second act of "Repatriation" did feel a little long. The lead was already established, as was the general story. All things felt right and then they just sort of halted. Clearly, this wasn't a big, massive issue for me. All the great elements of the film came together to hide it a little. Never the less, a slight slow down does still occur around the middle. That final act more than makes up for it however, when we get to see the true colors of our protagonist. All in all, the technicalities of "Repatriation" are anything but standard micro-budget fare. It just runs that nicely.
When it's all said and done, this is a film that doesn't just squeak by with a four out of five. It earns each and every star. Even with the slight slowdown somewhere in the middle, this was a great movie. One of it's most brilliant tricks, is showcasing just how low some people will go to get attention. These same tricks are used in what many "playas" call their game. This particular "trick" doesn't just illuminate Chad's character flaws, but also makes you pity him, the person who feels the need to resort to such tactics. Is this the "true face" this film attempts to show us? Or is there more? Maybe the mental need to relive ones teenage years? The glory days of popularity and hero worship? Maybe. Yet the gimmick of "Repatriation" is that both of these scenarios could apply. Douglas Mueller proves that a little can go a long way, and closes things off with an ending you will either love or hate, simply because of the implications. One thing is for sure. You may never quite look at anyone in uniform the same way. My final thoughts? A pretty damn good film that earns it's four stars.