Lotawana (2021) Film Review
Few films dig well into the subject of human responsibility and its unique considerations by more modern and progressive sectors of society. It’s just an awkward conversation between individualism and the drive to follow a more traditional mindset. But what is tradition, if not a fancy way to refer to a set of rules?
In Lotawana, two protagonists have this “conversation” the hard way. In fact, not much happens aside from a continuous declaration of independence through well shot scenes. This is the story of a union that’s almost random in nature. But definitely one that works toward telling the story of two free spirits that can’t get rid of the grip of the society they came from.
Everly and Forrest have met on the edge of a lake and have stayed together ever since. They sail and fall in love in his boat, Lorelei. They don’t question the lack of direction and just go wherever the wind tells them to. A terrible event makes them land in their journey, and forces them to look inside.
This tragedy is the beginning of the end for the couple, as they start wondering if they can expand on their endeavor when it reaches more dangerous territories.
Trevor Hawkins films his passion project with everything he has at hand. You can notice the drive as few things seem random in the film and everything goes according to the plan. Sure, there is a script, but Lotawana is one of those productions where mysticism is powerful and few scenes seem planned execution-wise.
Most of the responsibility lies on the shoulders of two performers who are impressively in tone with the film. Nicola Collie and Todd Blubaugh are protagonists in a story that feels fit for them from the very beginning. Their chemistry is magnetic and not one scene feels forced. It’s not an improvisational style that feels precise. It’s more of a coincidental union that fell from the sky and landed on Hawkins’ hands.
Lotawana is a road trip film that just happens to occur on the water. The story isn’t filled with hurdles or setbacks, except for the one that triggers the third act of the film, a very short and impacting resolution to the story. This is a passive film that runs on an emotional soundtrack and natural cinematography. It all works for Hawkins to comply with an idea that gives us a glimpse at a promising career.
Indie films aren’t usually this grounded and honest. But Lotawana is a very good example of a small triumph in a very small field. This is how big things start. And sometimes you only need a good idea, and a talented crew to accomplish your vision. Add to that a gorgeous couple of performers that decide to fall in love literally, and you’ve got yourself a decent film about breaking traditions and the perils of such a journey.
Just a couple of things to improve. The sound mixing and the final editing. But it’s just perks that are unnoticeable.
