The White Orchid (Steve Anderson): USA

Reviewed by Ryan Rullman. Viewed at the Metro 4, Santa Barbara.

T he film stars (Olivia Thirlby) from Juno as Claire a young investigator of a gruesome murder.

H ints in this film are revealed but has a lot of twist and turns through Claire’s investigation.

E ntering the murder victims house we find that she had a love for luxurious, and many wigs.

W e acknowledge the use of mise-en-scene, the famous Morro Bay rock and intense close ups.

H ouse of the victim Jessica, has this innocent yet gloomy feel which adds to the cinematography.

I deology depicted in this film, don’t cry because its over, smile because it happened.

T hemes that are reoccurring, include the cell phone rings, the waves, wigs, and the white orchid.

E diting of this film is well done with a score that fits the murder thriller aspect of the overall film.

O riginality in the direction of the script, keeping you on the edge of your seat the entire duration.

R epetition of these motifs in the film have you engage into the film with multiple questions.

C inematography that is top notch of Morro bay with beautiful drone and establishing shots.

H er ambitions to finish the murder case, make Claire live though Jessica’s persona.

I enjoyed watching this new thriller noir at film at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.

D irected with outstanding cinematography capturing the heart of Morro Bay, by Steve Anderson.


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