In the recent past, many an art-house or independent film would receive only a small release. And where would this movie be released? Perhaps some college towns and major metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles, New York or Chicago. And maybe a DVD release marketed to independent rental stores that specialize in more obscure movies.

But today the media landscape is much different. Video rental stores are an artifact of earlier technological times in all but a very few and obscure cases. And a film receiving wider exposure via art house cinemas? That aspect has changed as well. Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, and even YouTube have become a showcase for smaller, more obscure productions to receive wider and relatively inexpensive exposure that it would not received through traditional channels.

Niche movies and documentaries flourish. And social media spreads the word in a grassroots way. A low-key drama with its centerpiece as an Alaskan backpacking trip? A movie that perhaps could only receive wider distribution in our current technological age.

A Wildlike Review

The Wildlike movie was produced in 2014 and made the traditional arthouse and film circuit rounds. But Wildlike is now available for streaming on Netflix and Amazon and is finding an enthusiastic audience. Word of mouth is letting people be aware of the film. The movie Wildlike is about a teenager named Mackenzie, whose mother is struggling with substance abuse issues, sent to live with her Uncle in Juneau, Alaska. The uncle is not as altruistic as he seems.

A series of events has Mackenzie leaving her uncle and making her way to Denali National Park. Mackenzie finds herself under the less-than-enthusiastic guidance of a lone backpacker named Bartlett. Mishaps happen. A few stories and thoughts are shared. And the film concludes in a satisfactory manner.

I’ve been vague about the plot as I do not wish to spoil the movie experience for other viewers. But the movie is not about the plot per se. It is about being immersed in the wilderness and the healing power of such. The movie is visually stunning and pulls the viewer into the landscape of Denali. The plot moves at slower and deliberate pace. Sensitive subjects are handled in a respectful manner.

Much credit for the success for the movie must be given to the two main actors. Ella Purnell (Mackenzie) and Bruce Greenwood (Barltett) give understated but powerful performances that carry the film.

Wildlike is very much of the “show, don’t tell” mode of storytelling. The plot elements are revealed in a subtle way. Small moments tell the story. Don’t expect BIG BOLD HOLLYWOOD type exposition. Wildlike is quiet. The movie does not shout, it whispers. And just as a person whispering forces you to focus on the conversation, the quiet tone of Wildlike focuses the viewer's attention. The experience of watching Wildlike progresses at a subtle pace. The viewer is rewarded with an immersive experience.

Some viewers expecting a more traditional story may be put-off at the non-definitive ending. In my opinion, this ending fits with the tone of the movie as a whole. It is not Hollywood. The ending is more along the lines of a well-written story that lends itself to a reader’s interpretation. What will happen next? What is the resolution?

Final Thoughts on Wildlike

Ultimately Wildlike leaves the viewer with a yearning to head to a place that is wilderness. The mountains, the lakes, and the wide open spaces lend itself to contemplation. Our own issues may not be as dramatic as the ones faced by Mackenzie. But we may find ourselves sympathetic and understanding of Bartlett’s own issues. In the backcountry solace is often found. A chance to think about what is happening in our lives and what the next step may be. Or simply a chance to pause, catch our breath, and leave the fast pace of our day to day lives behind.

Wildlike conveys this feeling well. In the wilderness we often seek awe inspiring views and isolated places. But the wilderness often provides “something else” for many. Something that we need in our lives and will often seek in the wild places. The mountains are grand and beautiful. And the vastness and scale has a way of putting our lives into perspective. Wildlike conveys that feeling, that desire and that need of what may be found from Nature.

Do not watch Wildlike for an explosive plot or exciting scenes. Much like a satisfying backpacking trip, Wildlike is more about the experience of watching the movie as a whole rather than any particular event. Watch Wildlike and enjoy the movie in the way Nature is often revealed: In a slow and subtle manner.

Wildlike is currently available for streaming – you can watch it here at Amazon.com.

Editor's Note: This review by contributor Paul Magnanti originally appeared in Issue 30 of TrailGroove Magazine. You can read the original article here.