Watch Abandoned: Angelique's Isle

Abandoned: Angelique's Isle is a stunningly beautiful and emotional drama set in the vast wilderness of Canada's north, as it follows the harrowing and transcendent journey of a young Métis woman, Angelique (Julia Jones), through the various stages of surviving alone on an isolated island in harsh conditions. With themes of resilience, survival, and human connection, it the movie is a captivating portrayal of self-discovery and redemption.

The story takes place in the 1840s, when Angelique and her husband, Charlie (Charlie Carrick), have been hired to transport the furs of a wealthy fur trader in a remote area of Lake Superior. But when their canoe capsizes in a storm, Angelique and Charlie are forced to swim to a nearby island for survival. As they wait for a rescue, their relationship is tested by the harsh conditions on the island and they have to fight to stay alive.

After a few days, Charlie becomes ill and succumbs to his sickness. Angelique is left alone with only her dog to keep her company, and she is forced to explore the island and learn how to survive by foraging for food and building shelter. As time passes, the human desire for connection and hope propels Angelique to stay strong even when facing the most harrowing circumstances. Her love and respect for the natural world sparks a deep spiritual transformation in her as she fully appreciates her place in the world.

Throughout this journey, Angelique develops a deep connection with a Métis woman, Mi'koma (Tantoo Cardinal), whose presence and guidance serve to remind her of her own strength, resilience, and knowledge, passed down through generations of Indigenous women. As Angelique faces one challenge after another, she must dig deep within herself to find the courage and strength to endure and survive.

One of the most striking aspects of Abandoned: Angelique's Isle is the cinematography, which is simply breathtaking. The raw beauty of the Canadian wilderness, with its vast forests, crystal-clear waters, and rugged cliffs, is given the respect it deserves, making the film as much about the landscape as its characters. There is a serenity and majesty in the landscapes, which creates a sense of awe and reverence that underpins the film's themes.

Another highlight is the exceptional cast, who deliver standout performances that bring their characters to life with clarity and depth. Julia Jones delivers an immensely moving performance as Angelique, who captures the nuances of a woman grappling with emotions of grief, hopelessness, and determination seamlessly. Charlie Carrick does well in his presenting Charlie, a man whose love and loyalty are tested in the face of grave danger. But it is Tantoo Cardinal, as the wise and wizened elder Mi'koma, who is the most arresting of the three, infusing her character with warmth, humor, and dignity, all the while conveying the richness of the Métis culture.

In conclusion, Abandoned: Angelique's Isle is a beautifully crafted and inspiring film, one that immerses the audience in a story of resilience, survival, and transformation. With impressive cinematography and standout performances, it is a tribute to the enduring spirit of the human heart in the face of adversity. While the story is often somber and challenging, it celebrates the beauty of life and the natural world, with a message of hope that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll.

Abandoned: Angelique's Isle is a 2021 suspense movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.