Dryland is an insightful exhibition of the daily struggles of life during the peak of the Great Depression when survival often meant making sacrifice. The film takes a unique approach on the topic of prohibition in that it is both based from a Canadian side of the border, and understood through the eyes of an unknowing, inquisitive child. I had the opportunity to see the premiere of Dryland and was lucky to hear Ferster discuss his family's personal connection with prohibition that ignited his inspiration for the film. As he takes his audience back to the year of 1929, Ferster's extensive knowledge about prohibition is emitted through the film from beginning to end. Ferster's passion for the subject matter is further carried through in the actors' delivery. Berry truly illustrates the emotions of a child (such as curiosity, fear, and anger) as she finds out her father's dark secret while playing the young Jolene. Likewise, Therrien's portrayal of a James is successful as he transitions between a devout father and family man, to an enigmatic salesman of illegal alcohol. Overall, the film gives a very accurate synopsis of the realities of everyday life during a time of economic hardship when prohibition existed. The cast, setting, script, and overall production of Dryland,paired with its truly unique subject matter makes for an incredibly well-done film. I would love to one day see an expanded version.
3 Reviews
Intriguingly Fresh
koolaidmixer4 October 2011
Warning: Spoilers
Dryland is a refreshing take on prohibition. I think it cleverly surprising that the main character is a young child. Prohibition was an intriguing part of North American history but I would suspect that one would be hard pressed to find information on what it may have been like for a child during this time. However, Ferster has done a great job in capturing what it may have been like for a child during this time. In using themes of innocence, curiosity, and responsibility he captures a snapshot that not only speaks of the child in prohibition time but also reaches to the child in present day. The need to be acknowledged and a part of the action is something that every child craves, and even needs. The child in this short seemed to scream for the acknowledgement and responsibility that it was to live as an adult, even though she was not yet there. Beyond its depth, and on top of the beautiful cinematography, Dryland serves as a wonderful expression of our human resiliency and our ability to make it through difficult times.
All the elements for a feature!
AngeliqueBerry24 September 2011
Very good story,
the background for the film is lovely. The movie is well acted could be a feature!
The actors appear to be well cast for the roles.
I liked the concept of the story and it gave you a real sense of what times were like in the 20-30's. The Director worked with the lighting and utilized the locations to fit with the movie.
I would recommend this movie to anyone who loves a good story and suspense.
Looking forward to movies by these guys!
the background for the film is lovely. The movie is well acted could be a feature!
The actors appear to be well cast for the roles.
I liked the concept of the story and it gave you a real sense of what times were like in the 20-30's. The Director worked with the lighting and utilized the locations to fit with the movie.
I would recommend this movie to anyone who loves a good story and suspense.
Looking forward to movies by these guys!
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
