INSP Network does not make films often. In fact, only four films have been released since the network started making movies in 2015. One of these films is County Line. The reason why I chose to review this film is because, as a movie-viewer, I wanted to support INSP Network’s creative efforts. While I haven’t seen Christmas in the Smokies, I have watched Heritage Falls and most of Savannah Sunrise. Personally, I enjoyed Heritage Falls more than Savannah Sunrise. But where does INSP Network’s newest film rank? Let’s crack the case in my review of County Line!

Things I liked about the film:

• The acting: The acting in County Line was good. However, the three strongest performers in this film were Tom Wopat, Jeff Fahey, and Patricia Richardson. Both Tom and Jeff gave performances that were well-rounded and versatile. Also, their portrayals of Alden and Cliff seemed very believable. Patricia’s performance was a delight in this film, with her character, Maddie, being very likable.

 

• The mystery: In County Line, the mystery was engaging. What was great about it was that it not only allowed the viewers to solve the mystery alongside Alden, but to also experience the mystery and the events surrounding it alongside Alden as well. This makes viewers feel like they are taking a journey, with Alden at their side.

 

• The cinematography: There was some really good cinematography in this film. One example is when there is a shot of the Intensive Care Unit doors followed by a shot of Alden’s left hand. Without the use of dialogue, this was a good way to remind viewers of what Alden had gone through in earlier scenes. It also helped viewers to understand Alden’s motives and feelings through the use of these visuals.

What I didn’t like about the film:

• The pace: My biggest problem with County Line was the pace. For a movie that has an engaging mystery and some action in it, the pace was really slow. Because of this, it made scenes feel like they are drawn out longer than they were intended to be.

 

• Too many establishing shots: Before a scene would officially start, there were several establishing shots, sometimes five or more, that came before it. While establishing shots are a necessary component to any film, some of the establishing shots in County Line were pointless. Because of the previously mentioned pace, these shots felt like they were drawn out for too long and given too much emphasis.

 

• The under-utilization of Patricia Richardson: While Patricia was one of the strongest performers in this movie, she didn’t have as many appearances as I had expected. Even though she is the top-billed actress in County Line, she is only in about four or five scenes throughout the entire film. Also, Patricia’s character, Maddie, did not have as big of a significance in the film as I had thought she would. Because of the movie’s synopsis, I had assumed that Maddie was going to solve the mystery alongside Alden. Sadly, this was not the case.

My overall impression:

At best, County Line is ok. Even though there was a good cast involved and an engaging mystery, the pace prevented this movie from reaching its full potential. However, I do respect what INSP Films was trying to accomplish with this movie, as well as the stories and messages they were trying to tell. For this, I will continue to support INSP Network as they work to create quality, original films. According to the official website for INSP Films, they have an upcoming film called Christmas on the Coast! While INSP Films has not made any official announcements about when the movie will premiere on INSP Network, I will definitely support the film and review it for 18 Cinema Lane!

 

Overall score: 6 out of 10

 

Have you seen County Line? What is your favorite INSP film? Tell me what you think in the comment section!

 

Have fun at the movies!

Sally Silverscreen

Link to the County Line movie page: http://www.insp.com/movies/county-line/?=top_nav

Link to the County Line movie website: http://countylinemovie.com/?utm_source=insp_com&utm_medium=movies&utm_campaign=county_line

Link to the INSP Films website: http://www.inspfilms.com/