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Genres
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CastAlex KruzBreanna LakatosJen Waite
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Release Date2013
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Runtime27 min
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IMDB Rating8.2 (74)
Red Cloud: Deliverance from 2012 is an indie film that revolves around a young man named Johnny Red Cloud (Alex Kruz). After spending years in prison, he struggles to get his life back on track as a reformed man. He is haunted by the mistakes of his past and the loss of his girlfriend, and constantly faces prejudice from the townsfolk who refuse to acknowledge his attempts at self-improvement.
The film opens with Johnny's release from prison, where he immediately heads back to his hometown in South Dakota. He begins to work at his father's diner, and soon meets and befriends a young waitress named Lisa (Breanna Lakatos). Johnny's father, a wise and understanding man, helps him settle back in and supports his efforts to turn his life around.
As Johnny tries to start anew, he is faced with multiple challenges that test his resolve. On one instance, he encounters an arrogant and racist police officer who threatens to throw him back into jail on fabricated charges. Johnny maintains his calm, but the incident leaves him shaken and vulnerable to relapse. His persistent struggles to rebuild his reputation and move on from his past make for an emotional and compelling narrative.
Throughout the film, Johnny and Lisa's friendship evolves into a budding romance. However, they are both hesitant to confess their feelings due to the social stigma surrounding their relationship. As a Native American man, Johnny faces discrimination and prejudice from the predominantly white community. Meanwhile, Lisa is engaged to a white man who disapproves of her closeness to Johnny.
Meanwhile, the town falls into disarray when a group of neo-Nazis arrive, led by a charismatic and manipulative leader (played by Jen Waite). The neo-Nazis begin to spread hate and division, targeting minorities in the town, including Johnny and the other Native Americans. The tension mounts as the townsfolk are shown to have mixed reactions to the neo-Nazis' involvement.
Johnny, who has experienced similar bigotry in his own life, decides to take a stand against the neo-Nazis. He rallies together a group of like-minded individuals, including other minorities and supporters, to fight against the hateful rhetoric of the neo-Nazis. They organize a protest against the group, which events in the film ultimately lead to a powerful climax.
Red Cloud: Deliverance is a film that tackles themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the consequences of prejudice. The performances by the relatively unknown cast are noteworthy, with Alex Kruz giving a standout portrayal as Johnny Red Cloud. The film is visually exciting, with the main setting of South Dakota's Badlands providing a unique and rugged backdrop to the story.
Although the film treads familiar ground with its portrayal of racism and bigotry, it stands out by emphasizing the consequences of racial prejudice and the importance of unity and understanding between communities. Red Cloud: Deliverance is a powerful and emotional journey that is worth experiencing. It is a film that reminds us of the importance of acceptance and compassion in a world that desperately needs it.