American Folk

American Folk, released in 2017, is a poignant drama deeply imbued with music and the soul-stirring power of collaboration in tough times. The film is woven around an unforgettable journey of two struggling singer-songwriters and their spur-of-the-moment cross-country road trip in the days immediately following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The movie stars the talented Joe Purdy, Amber Rubarth, and Krisha Fairchild, bringing incredible depth and charm to their respective roles.

At the heart of this tapestry is Elliot (played by Joe Purdy) and Joni (played by Amber Rubarth), two strangers who meet while waiting to board a flight from Los Angeles to New York. Their journey upends as all air travel is grounded following the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Despite only knowing each other from a brief encounter, the two decide to embark on the perilous journey to New York in a 1972 Chevy Van, which belongs to Joni's relative. The trip becomes a significant turning point in their lives, birthing an emotional bond drawn from shared experiences and the soothing power of music.

Director and writer David Heinz orchestrates an authentic, heartwarming story that is both a journey of discovery and self-realization. He paints a vivid portrait of America in one of its darker periods, while simultaneously reminding us of our capacity for kindness and unity during troubled times.

At its core, American Folk is a paean to the near-forgotten folksy tunes that shaped a generation and our cultural heritage. Through this movie, we see the transformative power of music, the stories it carries, and its ability to bring people together. The captivating tunes interspersed throughout the film are more than just melodious interludes; they become narrative threads that help knit the story together, unflinchingly connecting the audience to the characters and their struggles.

Joe Purdy, an accomplished singer-songwriter in real life, brings an intense quality to his character, Elliot. He lives and breathes music, and it becomes a potent instrument not only for personal expression but also for forging friendships with complete strangers. Purdy’s songs add exquisite depth to the film, becoming integral parts of the narrative as the storytelling leans heavily on the hauntingly beautiful folk music.

Amber Rubarth, on the other hand, portrays Joni—an emotionally guarded yet deeply empathetic figure. As an amateur musician, Rubarth’s simplicity and realness are compelling as her character navigates her way through an unfamiliar yet fascinating world of folk music that her travel companion inhabits. Together, their performances are both raw and enchanting, contributing to the film’s unique charm.

Veteran actress Krisha Fairchild plays a brief but memorable part in the film. Her performance provides a significant boost to the narrative, grounding it with a seasoned charm that truly embodies the spirit of Americana.

The film’s cinematography merits a special mention, peeling off multiple layers of the American landscape. The road trip crosses diverse terrains, from the dizzying orbs of city life to the open, scenic horizons of American heartlands. This visual odyssey intertwines with the emotive music, creating a surreal blend of sight and sound that underlines the themes of patriotism and unity, a significant backdrop of the film.

American Folk is not merely a movie; it is an experience—an intimate showcase of camaraderie, optimism, and resilience. It calls upon viewers to dig deep below the surface and inhale its soulful melody, its warm characters, and its scenic landscapes to appreciate the profound narrative woven with threads of folk music. The film serves as a meaningful commentary on the sometimes overlooked power of community, music, and unity—especially during times of utmost crisis and despair.

In essence, American Folk reminds us all of the beauty and resilience within the human spirit, even in troubled times. While it tells a story set against a backdrop of somberness, it remains a hopeful piece that beautifully explores unexpected friendships, the magnetic pull of shared goals, and the universal language of music. It leaves viewers with an indelible imprint—a testament to the power of music, the bond it forges, and the healing it fosters.