NewFest Review: Rivers Wash Over Me

NewFest’s centerpiece film ‘Rivers Wash Over Me,’ from writer/director John G. Young was screened Saturday night to an almost packed theater.

Illustration: Master WH

‘Rivers’ is Young’s third film following his critically acclaimed Parallel Sons. Set in Alabama, the film revolves around a recent NYC transplant Sequan Greene, played by newcomer Derrick L. Middleton. Sequon, has been sent to wallow in the dirty-dirty after the recent death of his mother.

A compelling story, touching on race relations, incest, drugs, and growing up gay in the south, the film was a nice choice as the Centerpiece; a fine example of dramatic screenwriting intertwined with biting humor. Yet, something in the execution went missing. Whether it was lost in filming or in the editing room, many characters come across as under developed, primarily the lead Sequan.

We’re meant to feel sorry for Sequan for being trapped in this south of the Mason-Dixon hell, but he comes across to the audience as a mildly “special” brat in need of a slap.

Mumbling throughout and spurning almost every kind action made his way, he is a truly unlikable character. Only when he begins a relationship with another gay boy in town — Jake, played by Aidan Schultz-Meyer — does his character become interesting. And just as we begin to root for them both and their budding relationship, the film abruptly ends, leaving us bewildered.

The film’s saving grace comes in the form of first-time movie actress Elizabeth Dennis. Taking on the role of Laurie, devoid of make-up and resembling Kirsten Dunst with a bad hangover, she’s the town slut with a heart of gold.  We watch the character freebase, snort coke throughout the school day, steal guns, and sleep with the town basketball star (we love her!). Despite Sequan’s unwillingness, Laurie manages to befriend the brooding boy, brings him out of his shell, eventually introducing him to both moonshine and her gay brother Jake. She’s steels the show.

Most of the lines in the film come from Dennis’ character Laurie, which inadvertently makes her the shining star. Evidently, the NewFest audience agreed. Leading up to the Q&A, Dennis received the loudest and warmest welcome by far. She covered her face blushing modestly.

So despite playing a hot mess on screen, with her solid acting chops and her girl-next-door charm,  Ms. Dennis is one to watch.

Rivers Wash Over Me encore screening – 5:30pm Thursday June 11, 2009. SVA theater, 23rd street between 8th and 9th avenue. Tickets @ Box Office

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