All Creatures Here Below

All Creatures Here Below is a 2018 American independent drama film directed by Collin Schiffli and written by David Dastmalchian, who also stars in the lead role. The film features an ensemble cast that includes Karen Gillan, David Koechner, John Doe, Richard Cabral, David Dastmalchian himself, and Jennifer Morrison.

The story revolves around the plight of two struggling young lovers, Gensan (David Dastmalchian) and Ruby (Karen Gillan), who are homeless and without jobs or any means of support. The film opens with a scene in which Gensan is desperately trying to sell a stolen puppy on the streets to make some money. When he is caught by the police, he and Ruby flee the scene and decide to leave town in search of a better life in California. The two have a complicated history, and their bond is tested as they embark on a perilous journey across the country, encountering a series of unexpected challenges and obstacles along the way.

Meanwhile, we learn through flashbacks that Gensan has a troubled history of his own. Abandoned by his mother at an early age and growing up in a series of foster homes and group homes, he has struggled with addiction and mental health issues throughout his life. Ruby, on the other hand, has a more stable family background, but has also faced her share of trauma and abuse. As the two make their way west, they are forced to confront their pasts and come to terms with the choices they have made.

Along the way, they encounter a colorful cast of characters, including a kindly truck driver (David Koechner) who gives them a ride and dispenses some much-needed advice on life and love; a group of homeless teenagers who welcome them into their makeshift community; and a down-on-his-luck musician (John Doe) who becomes a father figure of sorts to them. As they travel deeper into the heart of California, they are also forced to confront some harsh realities about the world they live in, including the dangers of sex trafficking and the consequences of addiction.

The film is shot in a naturalistic style, with many scenes filmed on location in real-world settings. The script is sparse, with long stretches of silence punctuated by bursts of dialogue and action. The performances are uniformly excellent, with Dastmalchian delivering a standout turn as the tormented Gensan, and Gillan bringing nuance and depth to her portrayal of Ruby. Koechner is also fantastic as the truck driver, imbuing his character with warmth and humor.

Overall, All Creatures Here Below is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores themes of love, loss, and redemption in a complex and nuanced way. While it is not always an easy watch, it is a film that sticks with you long after the credits have rolled. Highly recommended for fans of indie cinema and character-driven dramas.