Movie Info:
After a family tragedy, siblings Ella and Charlie are unexpectedly woken up by their dad and taken on a journey across the country, experiencing a world they’ve never seen before. As their adventure unfolds, Ella begins to understand that things might not be what they seem.
Review:
“Omaha,” directed by Cole Webley, is a poignant and deeply affecting drama that explores the themes of grief, family, and survival against the backdrop of the 2008 economic collapse. The film stars John Magaro as a widowed father who embarks on a road trip with his two young children, Ella and Charlie, to Omaha, Nebraska. The journey is filled with moments of tenderness, heartbreak, and raw emotion, as the family navigates their grief and the harsh realities of their situation.
Magaro delivers a standout performance as the father, capturing the character’s internal struggle and silent pain with remarkable depth and nuance. His portrayal of a man trying to shield his children from their harsh reality while grappling with his own grief is both heartbreaking and powerful. Molly Belle Wright and Wyatt Solis, who play Ella and Charlie, respectively, also deliver compelling performances, adding layers of authenticity and emotional resonance to the film.
Webley’s direction is understated yet impactful, allowing the story to unfold naturally and giving the audience space to connect with the characters and their journey. The film’s visual style, with its expressive use of landscape and quiet moments of contemplation, enhances the emotional weight of the narrative. The score by Christopher Bear, formerly of the indie rock band Grizzly Bear, adds a delicate and haunting quality to the film, further amplifying its emotional impact.
“Omaha” is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, offering a quiet yet powerful meditation on loss, resilience, and the bonds that hold a family together in the face of adversity. It is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of love and hope.
Letter Grade: A-
Credits:
Directed by
Cole Webley
Written by
Robert Machoian
Produced by
Preston Lee
Starring
- John Magaro
- Molly Belle Wright
- Wyatt Solis
Cinematography
Paul Meyers
Edited by
Jai Shukla
Music by
Production
companies
Sanctuary Content
Kaleidoscope Pictures
Monarch Content
Release date
- January 23, 2025(Sundance)
Running time
83 minutes
Country
United States
Language
English
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