...though much like "Red Road," it's not so much a thriller as it is a psychodrama, another confirmation that DVD packaging is inherently deceptive. Regardless, this sophomore effort from scripter Hawk Ostby and director/scripter Mark Fergus, the team that went on to bring us "Children of Men" and "Iron Man" (who'da thunk?), is a remarkable bit of entertainment. With excellent work from Guy "Ravenous" Pearce as a grungy salesman at whom the fickle finger of Fate has abruptly pointed, and a fine ensemble cast of support, particularly J.K. "Spider-Man" Simmons as the pointing finger, "First Snow" sports value that far exceeds its no-doubt limited budget. Fine, evocative cinematography by Eric Alan "My Own Private Idaho" Edwards, complemented by Cliff "Solaris" Martinez' moody score and fine costuming, set and production design, not to mention careful editing by Jay "The Pledge" Cassidy, all go a long way toward establishing the noir-ish tone and direction of the film. Some may not be happy with (or just confused by) the somewhat ambiguous ending, but in toto "First Snow" clicks on all counts. Recommended, especially to fans of Pearce, who by and large has an excellent knack for picking quality films to do.
Review of First Snow
