‘Peak Season’ SXSW 2023 Film Review
by Brad Harris
‘Peak Season’ is a beautifully crafted film that captures the complexities of relationships and how easily they can fall into routine. The story follows Amy and Max, a couple from New York who go on vacation to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. When Max is called away on business, Amy finds a friend in Loren, a local wilderness guide. As they spend the week together exploring the Tetons, their friendship evolves into something more. Claudia Restrepo delivers a moving performance as Amy, a woman who is suppressed and overlooked by her fiancé, played by Ben Coleman. Derrick DeBlasis shines as Loren, a vagabond who brings excitement and new possibilities into Amy’s life.
Directors Henry Loevner and Steven Kanter have crafted a film that is both poignant and thought-provoking. The film explores the complexities of human emotions and the difficulties of navigating relationships. ‘Peak Season’ does an excellent job of showing how people can unintentionally catch feelings for someone else in the face of neglectful routine. It’s a reminder that relationships require effort and that taking someone for granted can have dire consequences.
The performances in ‘Peak Season’ are outstanding, particularly Restrepo and DeBlasis. Restrepo portrays Amy as a woman who is stuck in a relationship that has lost its spark. DeBlasis delivers a captivating performance as Loren, a man who brings a whole new dimension of adoration and exploration into Amy’s life. The chemistry between the two is palpable, and their scenes together are some of the film’s best.
One of the film’s strengths is its ability to show the situation in shades of gray. While Amy might be blamed for catching feelings outside her relationship, the film does an excellent job of demonstrating how those feelings developed. The situation is not as easy to justify or condemn as it might seem. The film ultimately gives viewers all the information they need to make their own conclusions.
Finally, it’s worth mentioning that ‘Peak Season’ gets extra credit for showing two hot bears shirtless in a sauna. But, in all seriousness, this is a film that will stick with you long after the credits roll. It’s a beautifully crafted story about the complexities of relationships and how easily they can fall into routine. If you’re looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film, ‘Peak Season’ is not to be missed.
5 out of 5 Bear Paws