Natural Selection

Natural Selection is a critically acclaimed indie drama from 2011 that follows the journey of a woman named Linda White (Rachael Harris). Linda is a devout Christian who is struggling to conceive a child with her husband Abe (John Diehl). However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she receives a phone call informing her that Abe's long-lost brother has passed away.

Linda learns that Abe has a secret son named Raymond (Matt O'Leary) who has been living in Florida. She decides to take a road trip to bring Raymond back to their home in Texas in order to meet his father and connect with her newfound family.

The film explores themes of identity, family, faith, and redemption as Linda and Raymond embark on a journey that challenges their beliefs and understanding of life. Their initial meeting is rocky, as Linda discovers that Raymond is a troubled young man with a criminal past and a history of drug use. However, as they spend more time together, Linda begins to see the good in Raymond and becomes determined to help him turn his life around.

Rachael Harris delivers a powerful performance as Linda, portraying the character's inner conflict and journey towards self-discovery with great depth and nuance. Matt O'Leary's portrayal of Raymond is equally impressive, portraying the character's complexities and inner struggles with authenticity and skill. John Diehl's performance as Abe is also noteworthy, crafting a character who is both flawed and sympathetic.

The film's cinematography and soundtrack add to its emotional impact, capturing the beauty and desolation of the American landscape and providing a poignant backdrop for Linda and Raymond's journey.

Natural Selection garnered critical acclaim upon its release, winning the Grand Jury Prize at the South by Southwest Film Festival in 2011. The film offers a unique and meaningful exploration of family dynamics, faith, and self-discovery, and is a must-see for fans of indie drama.