DIRECTOR/WRITER: Rebecca Bagley Cook
PRODUCERS: Courtney Williams, Richard Sirianni
Distributors: Outrider Pictures/Porchlight Entertainment
Writing and directing the picture herself, Bagley Cook tells the story of three souls, Ray Kline (Robert Treveiler), Jessie Mc Gruff (Andrea Powell) and Megan Margulias (Teri Hatcher) who's lives intertwine after a fatal car accident kills Jessie's ex-husband Kenny (Gil Johnson). Credit must go to Bagley Cook for creating such likeable and admirable characters, who one can immediately relate to, in some way or another.
While in Chester to rekindle her relationship with her fiancée Craig (Daniel Green), Megan soon discovers that he has no interest in pursuing their relationship, and she begins to find love in other places, namely Ray Kline. Ray is in Chester to visit his dying mother (Colin Wilcox-Paxton), but tense family confrontations with his brother James (David Andrews) and sister Betsy (Jacqueline Anderson) await his arrival. There is buried family history, waiting to be dug up with Ray's renewed presence.
Jessie's son, Charlie (Cody Newton), has a sixth sense and dreams of his fathers accident, which he ultimately feels guilty for. Jessie and Charlie are wrapped in love by their close friend Chippy (Rhoda Griffis), an eccentric character who has a warm heart, and always making the best of bad times.
It seems fate has found a way to bring these strangers together. The individual lives of these characters appear so real and normal, each with their own issues, it is easy to escape into the film as if one already knew these people. It is a joy to watch as their stories unfold.
Heading the cast for this pic is Teri Hatcher, known mostly for her roles in TV and Film. Her portrayal of Megan is spot on, showing a vulnerability mixed with strong will. Megan is not to be walked over, and at one point in the film punches her fiancée in the face when she finds he has been cheating. It's a moment in the film where one can just hear the audience cheering. Hatcher hasn't been seen in a romantic lead for some time, and it's wonderful that she has been given the opportunity to shine here. The character Megan seems like she was tailor made for Hatcher. Even down to a reference to superheroes, since Hatcher played Lois Lane in the Superman TV series. Clearly a gifted actress, Hatcher is always realistic, never over dramatic, showing real emotional depth, and a great deal of comedic ability. This must have been noted by the TV exec's, since she has recently signed for her own comedy series on ABC.
Andrea Powell is another stand out. A relative unknown to the mass market, this should be her breakthrough. Her role as Jessie is demanding, throwing her through a series of complex emotions that she plays to perfection. Robert Treveiler as Ray Kline is also exceptional. Showing a wide range in his skill, Treveiler is thoroughly believable as he is taken on a journey full of emotions. As he sits with his dying mother in one of the scenes, one can see the hurt in his eyes. It is one of many beautiful moments in the film. Again, credit must be given to Bagley Cook in bringing out the best in all the cast.
Adding to the rich characters and settings is the breathtaking cinematography from Harlan Bosmajian. He truly captures the southern atmosphere, and adds a panoramic touch to the film, with lush shots of beautiful Wilmington, where the film was shot.
Rebecca Bagley Cook, in only her second feature, has gathered a group of people who have made one of the most spectacular films of the year. Through her honest direction and writing style, she captures the lives of these characters in a pure and truthful way, creating characters one feels a connection with, and wishes they knew. It will be exciting to see what direction she takes next.
Every now and then a special film comes along where it examines the beauty of everyday life, through all its flaws. The Chester Story is a fine example, and proves that through tragedy, something positive can ultimately arise. Thinking back to the tragedies of the past few years, it really is inspiring to view a film that captures life in such a precious and raw way.
The Chester Story leaves one feeling moved, inspired, and above all happy, and in uncertain times such as these, it is a great feeling to walk away with.
Reviewed by Scott Eathorne, January 25th, 2003
seathorne17@yahoo.com
NOTE: 'The Chester Story' is known as 'A Touch of Fate' internationally.
