Movies: Wayward (2023) by Jacquelyn Frohlich

Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/search (US), https://www.justwatch.com/uk/search (UK)

Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28503916/

Link Review: https://www.indiewire.com/news/trailers/wayward-trailer-chloe-guidry-stars-jacquelyn-frohlich-debut-1235070233/

About movie: https://www.abramorama.com/film/wayward

Here is a detailed summary of the movie "Wayward (2023)":

Movie (Detailed Summary

Eleven-year-old Cleo is moving from Idaho to Los Angeles with her mother. Feeling a lack of stability in her life, Cleo becomes strongly drawn to a charismatic female hitchhiker that they pick up on their way. As Cleo's connection with the hitchhiker deepens, she starts to distance herself from her mother. This growing bond with the stranger leads to a situation where the line between a young girl running away and a potential kidnapping becomes increasingly unclear, suggesting a tense and emotionally charged journey.

Plot Summary

Cleo, an 11-year-old girl, is uprooted from her life in Idaho as she travels to Los Angeles with her mother. During the drive, they encounter and give a ride to a captivating female hitchhiker. Cleo, longing for a sense of steadiness, finds herself increasingly fascinated by this woman. This fascination evolves into a close connection, causing a rift between Cleo and her mother. The film explores the complex dynamics that arise as Cleo's attachment to the hitchhiker grows, hinting at a potentially dangerous and uncertain path ahead.

Director's Vision

Jacquelyn Frohlich stated that the project originated from her personal experiences and a desire to create a road story. Initially, she thought a road trip film would be more manageable on a smaller budget. However, during the script development, the core focus shifted to the character-driven elements, drawing inspiration from her own upbringing and relationships. She aimed to blend these character-focused aspects with plot elements to craft a compelling narrative. Frohlich also emphasized the challenges of filming in a car and the importance of maintaining creative control through independent funding. She highlighted the exemplary performances of the cast, particularly Jess Weixler, emphasizing the value of authentic performances and the actors' willingness to push their boundaries.

Themes

• Yearning for Stability: Cleo's desire for a stable environment is a central theme, influencing her connection with the seemingly free-spirited hitchhiker.

• Mother-Daughter Dynamics: The film explores the evolving and potentially strained relationship between Cleo and her mother as Cleo seeks connection elsewhere.

• Defiance and Self-Discovery: Cleo's journey involves elements of rebellion and a search for her own identity amidst a significant life change.

• Unexpected Connections: The unlikely bond formed between Cleo and the hitchhiker highlights how connections can arise in unexpected circumstances.

• Trust and Independence: The narrative touches upon themes of trust, both given and misplaced, and the desire for independence.

Key Success Factors

• Strong Central Performances: The success of the film likely relies heavily on the performances of the lead actresses portraying the complex emotional landscape of the characters.

• Character-Driven Narrative: Frohlich's focus on character development and authentic performances is a crucial element for the film to resonate with audiences.

• Blending Genres: The seamless blend of mother-daughter drama with thriller elements could be a key factor in keeping the audience engaged.

• Frohlich's Personal Vision: The director's personal connection to the story and her clear vision for the film likely contributed to its cohesive and impactful nature.

Summary Short

An 11-year-old girl moving to Los Angeles becomes fixated on a hitchhiker, creating tension with her mother and blurring the lines between escape and danger.

Awards and Nominations

The movie was an Official Selection at the 2023 Deauville Film Festival. IMDb indicates one nomination in total, but the specific award or nomination is not listed.

Critics Reception

Critical reception has been generally positive, with emphasis on the film's nuanced storytelling and strong performances:

• The Moveable Fest: Highlighted the film's surprising criminal element and its use to explore the underlying desires and reflections of each character. The review praised Frohlich for her ability to reveal the compromises each character faces.

• Behind The Lens Online: Focused on the director's intention to create a character study blending drama and thriller, emphasizing the personal experiences that shaped the narrative.

Reviews

• Film Threat: Has not reviewed "Wayward (2023)" as of the current search.

• MUBI: Provides a brief synopsis but no detailed review.

• User reviews on IMDb for a film with a similar title "Wayward (2022)" exist but appear to be for a different movie.

Box Office

Information regarding the box office performance of "Wayward (2023)" is limited. As an independent film with a limited theatrical release before streaming, comprehensive box office data might not be readily available.

Production (Summary, add sentence)

"Wayward" was written and directed by Jacquelyn Frohlich. The film was produced with a micro-budget, emphasizing the director's focus on character and narrative.

Production Companies

• Green Step Productions (Country not specified in available information)

Sales Companies

Information about specific sales companies involved in "Wayward (2023)" is not readily available.

Distribution Companies

• Abramorama (United States)

• The film is also being distributed through streaming platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, and Amazon.

Release Date on Streaming

"Wayward" is scheduled to be available for streaming on platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, and Amazon starting April 4, 2025.

Why to Recommend This Movie

• Compelling Coming-of-Age Story: The film offers a unique perspective on a young girl's journey as she seeks stability and connection.

• Intriguing Blend of Drama and Thriller: The narrative promises to keep viewers engaged with its subtle suspense and emotional depth.

• Strong Performances: The film is noted for its authentic and powerful performances from the lead actresses.

Why to Watch Movie

• Character-Driven Exploration: If you appreciate films that delve into the complexities of human relationships and individual journeys, "Wayward" seems to offer a nuanced exploration.

• Independent Filmmaking at its Finest: The film is a testament to the resilience and creativity of independent filmmakers working with limited resources.

• Thought-Provoking Narrative: The story raises questions about trust, connection, and the search for belonging.

What Movie Trend Film is Following

• Independent Character-Driven Dramas with Thriller Undertones: "Wayward" aligns with a trend of independent films that focus on intimate character studies within dramatic narratives, often incorporating subtle thriller elements to heighten the tension and stakes. These films often explore complex relationships and personal journeys.

What Big Social Trend is Following

• Focus on Complex Mother-Daughter Relationships: While not exclusively about this, the film touches upon the intricacies and challenges within mother-daughter relationships, reflecting a broader social interest in exploring these dynamics with greater nuance and honesty in media.

• Stories Exploring Unconventional Connections: The central relationship between Cleo and the hitchhiker highlights the human tendency to form bonds in unexpected places, reflecting a social acknowledgment of diverse forms of connection and support.

Final Verdict

"Wayward (2023)" appears to be a compelling and emotionally resonant independent film that successfully blends coming-of-age themes with elements of drama and thriller. With a focus on strong character development and nuanced performances, Jacquelyn Frohlich's debut feature offers a thought-provoking exploration of connection, stability, and the complexities of human relationships during a time of transition.

Recommendations for Film Makers

• Prioritize Character Development: Even with limited budgets, focusing on well-developed characters with clear motivations can create a powerful impact.

• Embrace Personal Experiences: Drawing from personal experiences can infuse authenticity and depth into storytelling.

• Be Resourceful with Budget: "Wayward" demonstrates that compelling stories can be told effectively even with micro-budgets by focusing on strong writing and performances.

• Maintain Creative Control: Explore avenues for independent funding to ensure your artistic vision remains intact.

Recommendations for Movie Industry

• Support Independent Filmmakers: Continue to support and provide platforms for independent films like "Wayward" that offer unique perspectives and diverse storytelling.

• Recognize the Value of Streaming for Independent Cinema: Streaming services play a crucial role in allowing independent films to reach wider audiences beyond limited theatrical releases.

• Highlight Character-Driven Narratives: Recognize the audience appeal of character-focused stories that explore complex human emotions and relationships.