This gem of an indie is worth it for the fantastically vibrant cinematography alone. It was shot on location in Park County, Colorado (the real South Park) and offers a slice of rugged mountain life that still exists in all its beauty, hardship, and yes, tragedy. The film draws you in with its down home appeal of a young man rebuilding his life after a stint in prison, and his father who, mending his own fences, heroically tries to help his son. Soon the young mans troubles snowball, and the film that so easily charmed the viewer charts an unchangeable course for personal disaster. The suspense is genuine, and the ending is shocking and tragic in a wonderfully Shakespearean way. Among the themes richly woven into this tale are tragic fate, family obligations, and social justice. The story may seem a bit melodramatic, but it is a matter of style that hearkens back to the origins of the original westerns, and melodrama itself. Plus, you'd really be surprised to find how many families out there have similar stories to this one--and some even more shocking. If you are looking for a sugary sweet Hollywood ending here, move on. But keep in mind that Hollywood would never have the courage to make this film with this ending, which is what makes independent film so refreshing. And if you think the ending is overly harsh... ... you need to re-read your Shakespeare! The production values are low, but the themes and story telling rich, rewarding, and haunting... And again, the cinematography is beautiful!