The Story Behind Horizon Line: High Above the Clouds
Horizon Line is a 2020 survival thriller about Sara (Allison Williams) and Jackson (Alexander Dreymon), a pair of former lovers whose small plane crashes into the Indian Ocean. After the plane crash, the two are stranded on a deserted island and must rely on one another to survive, all the while facing the emotional challenges of their past. Directed by Mikael Marcimain, the film focuses on and unpacks the intricate and problematic aspects of human relationships.
The Depths of Survival: More than Just a Crash
Horizon Line is, primarily, about more than just the survival of a plane crash. It is about the emotional and psychological self struggles and the challenges posed by a broken relationship. The emotional and psychological distress of the characters are conveniently neglected by the island setting. Added to this is Sara’s emotional bafflement that tracks her painful, unfinished narrative with her ex, and her reluctance to reconnect with Jackson. As life threatening challenges mount, the two are forced to confront the necessary and painful process of emotional survival and the forgiveness of estranged relationships.
Allison Williams and Alexander Dreymon: Real-Life Parallels
Allison Williams, famous for her role in Get Out, adds complexity to Sara, a character who encounters a traumatic history, and whose performance is a testimony to authenticity, possibly witness through her intricate public relationships. Alexander Dreymon, renowned for The Last Kingdom, acts as Jackson with a candid and raw portrayal demonstrating the essence of a redemption seeking character. Actors’ real life public scrutiny coupled with personal development undeniably adds more layers to the performances strengthening the emotional transitions of the characters.
Symbolism in the Skies: The Plane as a Vessel of Change
The small plane in Horizon Line is more than a means of transportation. It depicts the fragility of life and unforeseen challenges that come and reshape the trajectory of one’s life. Its malfunction and high-jack serve as a turning point for the characters and their development. The limitless ocean represents the myriad of unanticipated challenges, both mentally and physically. The characters’ internal conflicts on survival mirror the external conflicts and the theme that, at times, lack of control is paramount. The characters’ internal conflicts on survival mirror external conflicts and the theme that, at times, lack of control is paramount.
Creative Choices and Their Behind the Scenes Implementation: The Challenges of Filming Horizon Line.
In terms of filming Horizon Line, there were more than a few notable obstacles to overcome, not the least of which was the balancing act of containing the ceaseless ocean and the boundless maritime journey. That being said, the depiction of the journey proves to be a case of innovative execution. As the director, Mikael Marcimain, took the decision of using authentic locations, this contributed to the realism of the film, but simultaneously involved more complex realistic challenges. The relationship and emotional depth of the film was a joint effort of the on screen and off screen camaraderie of the actors Williams and Dreymon.
Audience Reception: A Mixed Altitude
Audiences gave Horizon Line a varied, mixed bag of critiques. This can be explained initially by the different aspects of the film being either praised or critiqued, for the supposed lack or depth. The character development was a point of contention, the film proceeding by its cause and survival, without fully exploring the emotional depth. The film was able to find an appreciative audience as a ceaseless story of survival, and the relationship of the lead characters.
The Legacy of Horizon Line
While Horizon Line did not receive critical accolades, it still serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of humanity. The film captures the essence of an individual fighting to grow, something that speaks to audiences who want to read about personal redemption and struggle. The film’s unique narrative combines the elements of suspense and emotional storyline to having the viewers thinking about it long after the film is finished.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the film Horizon Line is much more than a survival thriller. It is an eloquent examination of the human psyche and the interpersonal problems that the human conditions inflict. The film’s portrayal of Sara and Jackson emphasizes that even when the growth, healing, and understanding seems most out of reach, it is most possible.