Shepard (2020) A Quiet Thriller of Torment and Redemption

Shepard is a thriller that gets right into the nature and nurture debate by locking two damaged souls together. Directed by Jourdan McClure and written by Philip Landa, the film follows Ray (Kurt Krause), a young man scarred both physically and mentally by a life spent bouncing from home to home. When he learns he has an aunt willing to take him in, it seems like his fortunes might finally change. But as Ray discovers, some people are rotten to the core. It doesn’t matter how quiet or unassuming their target may be.

A Chance Encounter with Shepard

Ray’s life takes another turn when he meets Shepard (Will Beinbrink) during a liquor store scuffle. A mysterious savior, unafraid of consequences and seemingly unstoppable in his determination to help Ray stand up to those who torment him. It’s clear why Ray feels attracted to someone like Shepard. Shepard embodies the strength and fearlessness Ray has always lacked.

However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Shepard isn’t the yin to Ray’s yang. The two men may share scars, but their paths have diverged drastically. Ray sees their common ground as a foundation for connection. However, this darkness runs deeper. This leads to a battle of wills with devastating consequences for both.

Themes and Execution

Shepard is a quiet, dramatic thriller that explores the complexities of trauma, survival, and power dynamics. Philip Landa, whose previous work Outrighteous tackled relationships through a comedic lens, shifts to a much darker tone here. Jourdan McClure’s direction incorporates a few unconventional choices. One choice is using near-total darkness midway through the film. It symbolizes Ray’s inward cocoon, a world without light or hope. This visual metaphor underscores Ray’s realization that his struggles may never truly end.

Despite these thematic strengths, the film occasionally falters. The pacing can feel slow, and some scenes lack the tension needed to fully immerse the audience. While intriguing, Shepard’s character doesn’t always convey the level of menace required to make his dynamic with Ray as compelling as possible. Additionally, certain plot elements, like a teacher’s questionable grasp of confidentiality, introduce moments of predictability and frustration.

Performances and Final Thoughts

Kurt Krause’s understated portrayal of Ray perfectly captures the quiet desperation of a young man searching for a way out. Will Beinbrink brings depth to Shepard, though his performance sometimes falls short of delivering the tension the role demands. Supporting cast members Kareem J. Grimes, Greg Proops, and Ashley Nicole Williams contribute solid performances, rounding out the narrative.

Overall, Shepard is a decent offering from Gravitas Ventures. It doesn’t reach the heights of more polished thrillers. However, its exploration of trauma and redemption makes it worth a watch for fans of quiet, character-driven stories.

Shepard 2020

2.5 “I’ll show you mine” out of 5

Cast for Shepard:

• Kurt Krause
• Will Beinbrink
• Kareem J. Grimes
• Greg Proops
• Ashley Nicole Williams

• Gravitas Ventures distributes. Red Rover Movies produces this title.
• Directed by Jourdan McClure. Writer Philip Landa.

Shepard Movie Where to Watch

If you love indie films, this title released in 2020 and is available to stream for free in most regions.

Gravitas Ventures has a bunch of great cinematic titles to check out. Mother of Movies recommends adding The Mimic | Skyman Documentary | The Little Horror Movie or New Money to your watchlist next.

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Shepard Movie Trailer