The Independents

The Independents is a warm, witty, and superbly executed drama-comedy released in 2018. It features the collaborative efforts of three characters who are trying to make their mark in the world of music. The storyline, written and directed by Greg Naughton, is a semi-fictional representation of the real-life folk-rock band The Sweet Remains, led by the movie's stars - Rich Price, Greg Naughton, and Brian Chartrand. Their characters give us an inside view of the unglamorous, gritty, yet hopeful journey of independent artists striving to make it in the music industry.

Set against the backdrop of disparate locations across America, the film tells the story of these three talented but distinctly different singer-songwriters. Each one has experienced varying levels of success and struggle in their solo careers when chance - or perhaps destiny - brings them together. A surprising on-stage harmony reveals a rich, unique sound that seems ripe for success, one none of them had been able to achieve individually. A genuine camaraderie develops among them that leads them to form a band, taking a leap of faith into the uncertain but exciting world of collaborative artistry.

The film's central characters are portrayed with relatable complexity. Rich Price stars as a brooding perfectionist, Greg Naughton embodies the optimistic family man, and Brian Chartrand is the laid-back free spirit. Together, their chemistry ignites the screen not just during their musical performances, but also in the challenging circumstances, compelling dialogues, and hilarious moments of kinship that they share amid diverse locations ranging from the snow-covered fields of Vermont and a stalled van in the swamps of Florida to the lush greenery of the Pacific Northwest. These characters, their personal battles, and their shared journey comprise the heart and soul of The Independents.

Although the film predominantly revolves around the band's efforts, it is much more than just a 'musical journey' film. The plot is infused with humor, heartfelt emotions, romance, and even a dash of adventure. The screenplay is commendable for dealing with relatable life issues such as failed dreams, unfulfilled ambitions, midlife crisis, hope, and the pursuit of second chances. It's a story of resilience in the face of failure and a testament to the power of collaboration and shared dreams.

Music plays a noteworthy role in the audience's experience of The Independents. Far from relying on typical licensed tracks, the music is original and performed by the stars themselves. The film doubles as a showcase for their collective real-life talent as The Sweet Remains. Their songs, which delicately thread through the narrative, serve as a secondary voice in the film, amplifying emotions and underscoring key moments.

The scene compositions throughout The Independents are striking in their simplicity and aesthetic, making it a visual treat. The color palette represents the differing moods in the story, varying from the visually inviting warmth of sunlit scenes to the gray and cool accents of moments filled with frustration and despair. Cinematography has a key role in bringing out the striking contrast between these musicians' dreams and their reality.

The Independents is an engaging and soulful film that subtly navigates the landscapes of friendship, resilience, dreams, and reality. It delves into the behind-the-scenes life of artists, showing us that the road to success often includes unpredictable moments of serendipity and trials that turn into triumphs. It integrates a dynamic blend of music, drama, humor, and the complexities of life into an engaging narrative that feels real, honest, and inspiring.

In conclusion, the movie is a moving and life-affirming exploration that will highly appeal to music enthusiasts, fans of The Sweet Remains, and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted, character-rich, independent film. Its relatable, human narrative explores the emotionally resonant themes of dreams and friendship with humor and sincerity, while subtly serenading us with some truly memorable melodies. The Independents is a lively, harmonious, and heartening cinematic symphony celebrating the human spirit's resilience and the power of camaraderie. It champions the universal message that it's "never too late to dream."