Freedom State is a independent film about a special needs group who take a road trip in what is evidently some kind of happy post apocalyptic world. We do not get much backstory at all nor many of the facts. Was there indeed an apocalypse? And who are these people? In the end it does not matter. The film is quite short (just under an hour) and while many scenes are frustrating to say the least, there are some truly fun moments as well. The story almost does not matter. There is some truly wonderful camerawork and genuinely good acting. However there is some bad acting as well. It is not for all tastes, so you have been warned.
8 Reviews
Different And Not So Terrible
socrates411 April 2019
FREEDOM STATE is one of the more unique films I've seen lately. It offers no explanation or apology for being different. It just is. And that is an asset to the movie.
It's about a group of intellectually disabled people in what appears to be a post-apocalyptic world. The premise alone sounds very different, but once you put it on you'll realize that this is a film no one could have predicted. I can see how some would really love this film for what it is. As for me, I enjoyed it. Recommend.
It's about a group of intellectually disabled people in what appears to be a post-apocalyptic world. The premise alone sounds very different, but once you put it on you'll realize that this is a film no one could have predicted. I can see how some would really love this film for what it is. As for me, I enjoyed it. Recommend.
Quirky characters taking a surreal trip out of their mundane lives
phila-325 June 2006
The cast is brilliant as a batch of quirky characters caught up in their own magical mystery tour, as they embark upon a whimsical journey through the countryside of a perceived post-Apocalyptic world. "Freedom State" is one of those films that really captures the attention more through character development rather than today's flash and floundering. This film has a vision that is really less purpose and more introspection into how different minds and personalities meld in an almost surreal world.
The main character Krystal - as played exceptionally by Megan Murphy - is bored and attention-deprived in her lackluster marriage and home life, she wants something else, but not sure what. Her wish is to "learn to be crazy," because "being normal is crazy." In many ways, these lines ring true.
"Freedom State" could almost be viewed as a modern-day more abstract and adult "Wizard Of Oz," as nothing is real but all are involved. The fact that their surreal journey takes place in the vehicle of the rest home's yellow short bus also adds the Beatle-esquire "Magical Mystery Tour" aspect ("Yellow Submarine" anyone?).
Coming in at just about one hour long, it is exactly as long as it should be for the story contained within. No matter what one might think while viewing it, it leaves a lasting impression in the mind and the desire to see it again. Rarely is seen a film with as well- matched a cast as in "Freedom State." "Freedom State" is a must see.
The main character Krystal - as played exceptionally by Megan Murphy - is bored and attention-deprived in her lackluster marriage and home life, she wants something else, but not sure what. Her wish is to "learn to be crazy," because "being normal is crazy." In many ways, these lines ring true.
"Freedom State" could almost be viewed as a modern-day more abstract and adult "Wizard Of Oz," as nothing is real but all are involved. The fact that their surreal journey takes place in the vehicle of the rest home's yellow short bus also adds the Beatle-esquire "Magical Mystery Tour" aspect ("Yellow Submarine" anyone?).
Coming in at just about one hour long, it is exactly as long as it should be for the story contained within. No matter what one might think while viewing it, it leaves a lasting impression in the mind and the desire to see it again. Rarely is seen a film with as well- matched a cast as in "Freedom State." "Freedom State" is a must see.
Unique, Clever, and Quirky Vision
mastermaster28 May 2006
I saw this film premier at the Cinequest Festival. It showed a distinct visual flavor. The film seems more like reading a book with beautiful and meaningful imagery. Definite Wes Anderson influences. I don't believe this film is for everyone. I would like to watch it again. Afterwards, my impression was there were a lot of detailed elements I missed. And when the director said the film cost less than $100,000 to make; I couldn't believe it. Production value was outstanding. Some memorable performances. And most of all, it actually left me months later still thinking about it. I liked it more in retrospect than I did during the actual viewing (though I had a smile on my face during the screening). I think that means something. Great directorial debut.
An aimless and winding tale that somehow leads you back home
ivisitjman26 June 2006
I had a chance to be one of the first people in the outside world to see this film and I feel quite privileged for that honor.
Freedom state isn't about a million dollar budget, flashy graphics, loud action scenes, annoying actors, or a rehashing of an old idea. It is what every movie should be: a perfectly woven, unpredictable, refreshingly touching, and very well told story. The camera, the music, the actors, the director, producer, etc. They all facilitate the story and never overshadow, control, or distract from its direction.
Freedom State creates characters that you can relate to, that move you, that you could see yourself being if you had taken one wrong turn and then takes you along their path. A path that is almost so aimless you sometimes feel lost in the world of their short bus. However, not so lost that the movie doesn't tie all of the strings back together and make you realize that two paths diverged can lead back to the same wood. It leaves you with an emotional feeling of rediscovery and the truth/impression that actual "craziness" most often arises from the social machine and not the outcasts that it produces.
This is a movie I will own on DVD and watch again by myself in order to extract its deeply personal, yet seemingly universal, message of hope for all of those who often feel as if they have strayed too far from society's expectations.
Freedom state isn't about a million dollar budget, flashy graphics, loud action scenes, annoying actors, or a rehashing of an old idea. It is what every movie should be: a perfectly woven, unpredictable, refreshingly touching, and very well told story. The camera, the music, the actors, the director, producer, etc. They all facilitate the story and never overshadow, control, or distract from its direction.
Freedom State creates characters that you can relate to, that move you, that you could see yourself being if you had taken one wrong turn and then takes you along their path. A path that is almost so aimless you sometimes feel lost in the world of their short bus. However, not so lost that the movie doesn't tie all of the strings back together and make you realize that two paths diverged can lead back to the same wood. It leaves you with an emotional feeling of rediscovery and the truth/impression that actual "craziness" most often arises from the social machine and not the outcasts that it produces.
This is a movie I will own on DVD and watch again by myself in order to extract its deeply personal, yet seemingly universal, message of hope for all of those who often feel as if they have strayed too far from society's expectations.
Thought Provoking
oregonian6 June 2006
When I got the opportunity to see this film, I jumped on it. I had heard great things about the director and the film and really wanted to see what caused the fuss. And once watching it, I understood.
It is quite a quirky film with unique characters in a web of different mindsets, goals, and interactions - I was informed the style is very French-like. I can relate to the lead actress as she feels that she is not living in the 'real' world and the bus adventure that occurs entertained me a great deal. I felt like I was reliving the best parts of childhood: the parts where we experience the world through our imaginations unlimited by societal expectations.
If you get a chance to watch this movie, please do. I think you'll enjoy it.
It is quite a quirky film with unique characters in a web of different mindsets, goals, and interactions - I was informed the style is very French-like. I can relate to the lead actress as she feels that she is not living in the 'real' world and the bus adventure that occurs entertained me a great deal. I felt like I was reliving the best parts of childhood: the parts where we experience the world through our imaginations unlimited by societal expectations.
If you get a chance to watch this movie, please do. I think you'll enjoy it.
A wild ride headed by a not so sane housewife who is searching for redemption
AriellesJewelry18 June 2006
What an incredible journey, both eye opening and heart warming. A story that echos the sincerity of "One Flew Over The Cuckoos Nest". It is a unique look into the human mind. At first glance, one already knows that this will be a delving look into the human condition, yet one is surprised when it ventures beyond the bounds of anything remotely cheesy. Both humorous and enlightening it is truly a joy to watch. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is ready for something extraordinary. Be Warned, it might just change your view on life. I really look forward to future endeavors by these filmmakers, and have high expectations of their work.
A marvelous trip
amlishka5 October 2006
Freedom State really is a marvelous trip; I was lucky enough to get to see it recently (we know someone in the cast with DVD of it). A lot of the movie was filmed on lovely Sauvie Island, which is not far from where I live, so it had a particular resonance with me.
I enjoyed Freedom State because it's a tale where taking a wrong turn can sometimes be a good thing, with an ultimately positive and up-beat message on life in general. The plot is a bit convoluted, and the story style takes a little getting used to, but the characters are genuine _people_ in their own right and in the end I came to really like each one on their own merits. It's impressive for a movie that was shot on a low budget; I think it's on par with much more expensive films. I'm not sure what genre I would put this in besides "indie" or Alternative. It does remind me of King of Hearts (1966), and a little of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975) though that comparison is weaker than to KOH.
I really enjoyed Freedom State- pop some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the marvelous trip it takes you on!
I enjoyed Freedom State because it's a tale where taking a wrong turn can sometimes be a good thing, with an ultimately positive and up-beat message on life in general. The plot is a bit convoluted, and the story style takes a little getting used to, but the characters are genuine _people_ in their own right and in the end I came to really like each one on their own merits. It's impressive for a movie that was shot on a low budget; I think it's on par with much more expensive films. I'm not sure what genre I would put this in besides "indie" or Alternative. It does remind me of King of Hearts (1966), and a little of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975) though that comparison is weaker than to KOH.
I really enjoyed Freedom State- pop some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the marvelous trip it takes you on!
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