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ROMAN PILGRIM: THE TALE OF WISHFUL CREEK

Roman Pilgrim - Tale of Wishful Creek is a bit odd, but in a hilarious and head-scratching way. Its target audience is dog lovers and those that enjoy more abstract films.

The story is about a man and his dog who travel away from their home in search of the man's voice. At the beginning of their journey they meet a mystical being - a Spirit Guide who dances with Roman's soul.

The film is inspired by a real-life Roman who suffers with a stutter, but when he sings he sings like Frank Sinatra. The film seems targeted towards those with particular type of humor - nonsense. This type of comedy works for me and, while the comedic scenes are a bit confusing at times, it makes up for that with comic relief. I love the talking dog at the beginning. The dog is animation works and funny. The camerawork is well done in terms of lighting, filters and camera angles. My favorite location is inside the forest. It is dark, mysterious and foggy and sets the tone for those scenes. I really enjoyed the music as it fits each scene very well, from classical to funky. Since there is limited talking the music helps drive the story forward. The original music at the very end is a treat for the audience to enjoy the credits. The visual effects are pretty basic, but the comedic content really makes the film. The composer created really entertaining original scores that make the film very unique and fun! My favorite part about this film is the music.

The message is that a journey is always easier with a friend. Even if they have fur. For a religious person, seeing the mystical creature in this film may be an issue.

I give this film 3 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 7 to 10, plus adults. Reviewed by Ashleigh C., and Julie S., KIDS FIRST!

Comedy may be the best way to express profound realizations. And director, writer, producer Annie Slater is channeling some deep stuff here in Roman Pilgrim - The Tale of Wishful Creek. For starters, a Shorthaired Pointer as the host for this short film and credited as featured by "Masterpeer Theater," is a great way to get viewers into the mood. Spoofing - using music, physical gags and smiling dogs - is a quick way to my heart.

The tale ends - to be continued - and too soon. After Roman Pilgrim leaves his town of Hope (gag, right?) and beds down for the first evening at Wishful Creek, his Spirit Guide comes to his sleeping bag side and pulls his energy to her. Thanks to the music by James Morrison, the guide and Roman dance for nearly five minutes. It is choreographed beautifully, especially the Spirit Guide, and with adorably sweet humor (Roman in his yellow P.J.s). I feel quite certain that he will get his non-stuttering voice back, but we all have to wait until Part II is released to find out.

The message of this film is to lighten up and let the beauty of life help you release your depression, or perceived inadequacies.

I rate Roman Pilgrim - The Tale of Wishful Creek 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids 6 to 14, plus adults. By Nancy K., KIDS FIRST!

Roman Pilgrim, and his faithful dog Blue, leave the town of Hope in search of Roman's lost voice. Along the lonely road, they bed down at Wishful Creek where they encounter a Spirit Guide who dances with Roman's soul. From Australia