Former Toledo high school friends, Fran (Cora Vander Broek) and Ben (Matt Foss), are about to reunite. Biological clock ticking, Fran has decided to make her dream of motherhood a reality. Ben has signed up to help Fran reach her objective. Agreeing to meet at a confined motel for one singular weekend, trauma-laced with awkwardness is on the menu.
With Lone Wolves, director Ryan Cunningham has brought to life a film about the loners who were worthy of the spotlight all along. Known for her consistent focus on blending “quirky” comedy with deeply personal, often “invisible” health and identity struggles, Cunningham’s vision is a love letter to the “what ifs” with a melancholy spoonful of John Hughes.
Broek’s Fran is a woman who projects an essence of confidence with unmasked vulnerability. In her late forties, the fear that she may never be a mother is starting to sink in. Although she did not pay much attention to Ben during their high school years, she is now putting all of her hopes in his commitment to serve as her sperm donor. Ben is brought to life by Matt Foss with a charisma straight out of an 80’s teen comedy. His unannounced high school crush on Fran has not been weakened by the hands of time. Foss’s performance here is infused with as much anxiety as it is heart. Together, Broek and Foss illuminate the screen.
“… Fran has decided to make her dream of motherhood a reality …”
The screenplay, also written by Broek and Foss, explores various themes with a loving touch. They have woven a story about being vulnerable and human. Lone Wolves is like watching two actors on a live two-person show suited for a Broadway stage, which leads to some moments that would be better served by a live audience. The character study taking place before your eyes is both intriguing and enigmatic.
With most indie films considered to be low-budget, Lone Wolves is a true micro-budget production. With a budget of $20,000, the scrappiness of the cast and crew is impressive and effective. Everything from the saturated, high-contrast color grading to the sharp dialogue and atmospheric soundtrack lends itself to a beautiful yet quirky experience. Although the art of conversation may seem to be on life support in today’s digital era, here the message that everyone has a story, feelings, trauma, and challenges in life is well conveyed. Lone Wolves is an eccentric and touching film that is sure to stir up some past trauma and heartbreak.
"…Lone Wolves is like watching two actors on a live two person show suited for a Broadway stage"
