One Split Second Image

One Split Second

By Ethan Padgett | January 23, 2025

One Split Second is a newly restored and formally lost film from 1995. Director-screenwriter and Biola Film School alumni Robert Bontrager takes audiences on a journey of redemption and looking beyond the spectrum of political ideologies in this compelling drama. Set in mid-90s Los Angeles, Russell Baker (Tim Starks) is a conservative radio host who has it all! He and his wife, Eileen (Stephaine Garrett), are enthusiastic about becoming new parents. Russell has a hit talk radio show with his best friend and left-leaning co-host, Dave Johnson (Dave Conaway), which is about to be launched nationwide. All this comes crashing down when Eileen discovers a birth certificate in her husband’s secret box and learns he had a love child. That same day, the couple’s night out turns tragic when a gang carjack leads to Eileen being shot in the heat of the moment.

While Russell grieves over his wife’s death, he must take custody of his son, Deon (Rio “Dekin” McGee), after his mother (Russell’s high school sweetheart) has been arrested. The two clash as Deon is brash, reckless, and a local gang member. Russell diligently works to help him grow and have a successful life. As he helps his son mature, Russell is on a self-journey to figure out the meaning of life. Deon is mentored by his father about the importance of hard work and finding a passion that will give him fulfillment. Russell takes an interest in Deon’s talent for drawing and encourages him to turn his art into a business venture. Little does he know his son is connected to his wife’s death.

“Set in mid-90s Los Angeles, Russell Baker…is a conservative radio host who has it all!”

Bontrager’s drama is an intelligent piece with strong performances; Tim Starks is fantastic as Russell, a deeply flawed everyman. The cast standouts are Rio “Dekin” McGee and Dave Conaway. McGee portrays Deon as a relatable and irrational teen, while Conaway adds levity with his sarcastic supporting role. All these performances work because Robert and Krista (co-writer) Bontrager’s screenplay tells a down-to-earth and human story. The social issue debates between Russell and Dave are depicted through casual banter, which saves it from becoming a “morality play.” The drama never feels overwhelming due to Randy Budnikas’ upbeat synth score.

One Split Second proves how indie and student films can be professionally done! Bontrager’s characters are three-dimensional, alongside the effortless camerawork by Darren Rydstrom and Frank Trevino. Due to its strong father-son redemption arc, the film reaches many audiences. Robert Bontrager’s film feels fresh and is worthy of rediscovery!

One Split Second (2024)

Directed: Robert Bontrager

Written: Robert Bontrager, Krista Bontrager

Starring: Tim Starks, Rio “Dekin” McGee, Dave Conaway, Stephanie Garrett, Mark J. Ferreri, Ray Essler, Ray Uhler, etc.

Movie score: 8.5/10

One Split Second Image

"…Russell takes an interest in Deon’s talent for drawing... Little does he know his son is connected to his wife’s death."

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