Writer/director Christian Rozier and co-writer John Tandy make the leap to features with the coming-of-age drama Apache Leap. The film follows Keane (Ignacio Kenton), who lives on the San Carlos Apache Reservation near Globe, Arizona. The aspiring artist is shocked to discover his wayward sister, Alison (Carrie Curley), is back. Her timing could not be worse, as Keane does not need any more stress. His wife, Melanie (Mariah Kitcheyan), is becoming more fed up with Keane’s inability to take care of his family, including daughter Mina (Rachel Curtis).
Keane’s father-in-law John (Douglas Miles), is only adding fuel to the fire by pressuring the young man to go to an interview John called in several favors to get him. To be able to properly care for Melaine and Mina, he reluctantly agrees. But, trouble seems to follow Alison, while her presence reignites memories of their tragic family past. Is it all too much for Keane to bear, or will he find the inner strength to face these seemingly insurmountable odds?

“…shocked to discover his wayward sister, Alison, is back.”
Kenton owns Apache Leap from beginning to end. Rozier wisely never lets the actor go broad, allowing him to subtly convey the joy and heartbreak of the character’s journey. This is made all the more impressive, considering Kenton has no other titles to his credit (or at least, they are not on IMDb). Curley is just as good but in a more extroverted way. Her fun-loving demeanor shields someone who feels unsure in life. It’s a tricky line, but the actor walks it with confidence.
Storywise, the stakes are admittedly low, though Rozier and Tandy keep the focus intimate, so Keane’s tribulations are felt. However, near the film’s end, it is revealed that a specific character did something to railroad Keane intentionally. Then, Keane and Alison discover that that same person was involved in their father’s demise. This particular person’s sins are glossed over, and comeuppance is not sought nor paid off. This oversight dampens the impact the finale is meant to have.
However, this issue does not hinder Apache Leap from being worth watching. The cast, especially the leads, are good. The writing is smart and realistic, eschewing melodramatics for authentic emotions. Hopefully, this is a first step for bigger and better things for all involved.
For more information, visit the Apache Leap Facebook page.