Wicked Spring (2001) -- **1/2
Quick Review

In 1861, two men, Harrison from the South and John from the North, join their respective armies and go to war. Both men leave behind the loves of their lives. This is their only link until their opposing regiments clash outside of Richmond.

As night falls, both men are totally separated from their fellow soldiers with the exception of a few comrades. Political differences unknown, the lost troops share a campsite. Harrison and John, both ailing from loneliness, lean on each other for comfort and companionship. It's not until their affiliations are revealed that the men are truly brought together.

In a festival that glorifies independent film, Wicked Spring serves as the prime example of why studio films are important. Some circles would have me hung for such blasphemy, but war films (even early American ones) are too big for such a small feature. The battles lacked innovation, and mostly looked like an amateur attempt at a Civil War reenactment. Were it not for the striking cinematography of Stephen M. Lyons, especially in the opening credit sequence, and the scoring of David G. Russell, I would not have initially received the film as well as I did.

Once the film begins its move forward, it still takes a while to make a point. When it does, however, it's an exclamation. Lead by DJ Perry 's tender performance, the cast embarks on a harrowing journeys to a dramatic ending that may be to loud for its own good.