OFF THE MAP
A small family lives beyond the fringes of society in
rural New Mexico. Unless a traveler happens upon
their little world by accident, a hand-drawn map
would be necessary to find their enclave. There
exist no published maps to such places. And,
sometimes the departure path can be just as
elusive. Some, like young eleven-year-old Bo
(Valentina de Angelis), are eager to see what lies
beyond. And others, like the IRS agent, William
Gibbs (Jim True-Frost), want only to stay.
All is not well in this paradise of freedom and self-
realization as Bo's father, Charley (Sam Elliott) is
struggling with a crippling depression that hangs
like a dark over the family. Bo's mother, Arlene
(Joan Allen) handles day-to-day matters as best she
can, patiently coping with her husband's illness.
Family friend, George (J.K. Simmons) plays an active
role in the family as Charley’s ever-faithful pal.
Director Cambell Scott has chosen Bo as the
central character of the film and it is through her
eyes that we come to understand the dynamics of
the family. Valentina de Angelis is simply superb as
Bo, the very talented, highly creative offspring of
Arlene and Charley. Joan Ackerman is the author of
both the original play, and the screenplay.
rural New Mexico. Unless a traveler happens upon
their little world by accident, a hand-drawn map
would be necessary to find their enclave. There
exist no published maps to such places. And,
sometimes the departure path can be just as
elusive. Some, like young eleven-year-old Bo
(Valentina de Angelis), are eager to see what lies
beyond. And others, like the IRS agent, William
Gibbs (Jim True-Frost), want only to stay.
All is not well in this paradise of freedom and self-
realization as Bo's father, Charley (Sam Elliott) is
struggling with a crippling depression that hangs
like a dark over the family. Bo's mother, Arlene
(Joan Allen) handles day-to-day matters as best she
can, patiently coping with her husband's illness.
Family friend, George (J.K. Simmons) plays an active
role in the family as Charley’s ever-faithful pal.
Director Cambell Scott has chosen Bo as the
central character of the film and it is through her
eyes that we come to understand the dynamics of
the family. Valentina de Angelis is simply superb as
Bo, the very talented, highly creative offspring of
Arlene and Charley. Joan Ackerman is the author of
both the original play, and the screenplay.
| Mary’s comments An indie from Holedigger Studios, this little gem will probably be relegated to the art houses exclusively. Mainstream theater goers may never have the pleasure of meeting Bo and her family, or of witnessing the elegance of the nature that surrounds them. Each character comes to life if only for an hour and forty-five minutes. A beautiful film experience, not to be skipped by its lack of advertising budget. |
Brenda’s comments
Be prepared to meet a very unusual family,
one worth meeting. All of the characters
are well matched with their role-players.
The rugged Sam Elliott looks positively
indigenous to the New Mexican desert, and
plays his depressive role very seriously.
Valentina de Angelis as Young Bo is
impressive and gives the role the creative
flair that it needs. A very good way to spend
an evening out!
Be prepared to meet a very unusual family,
one worth meeting. All of the characters
are well matched with their role-players.
The rugged Sam Elliott looks positively
indigenous to the New Mexican desert, and
plays his depressive role very seriously.
Valentina de Angelis as Young Bo is
impressive and gives the role the creative
flair that it needs. A very good way to spend
an evening out!
© 2003 St. Louis Movie Review Weekly. All rights reserved, except where indicated.
| ST. LOUIS MOVIE REVIEW WEEKLY Publishers: Brenda S. Ladd & Mary K. Morgan |
Movie Details
Official Movie Website
Theatrical Release
2005
Home Video
Not Available
MPAA Rating
Rated PG-13 for nudity and
thematic elements
Running Time
1 hour 51 minutes
Directed by
Campbell Scott
Cast
Joan Allen, Sam Elliott, J. K.
Simmons, Jim True
Studio
Holedigger Studios
Theatrical Release
2005
Home Video
Not Available
MPAA Rating
Rated PG-13 for nudity and
thematic elements
Running Time
1 hour 51 minutes
Directed by
Campbell Scott
Cast
Joan Allen, Sam Elliott, J. K.
Simmons, Jim True
Studio
Holedigger Studios