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» » Ashes of Eden (2014)

Short summary

No man can serve two masters.

User reviews


  • comment
    • Author: playboy
    I was pleasantly more surprised with the quality of this film than the apparent one person Sybil posting over and over in prior reviews. If you're going to sabotage someone's hard work, maybe you should go back to Yelp Mr./Mrs "Cheaply Done". Or, you should increase your vocabulary past having to use the same phraseology in different reviews so you don't leave the idiot signature of restaurant reviewing chef's ex-girlfriend.

    The reason you hate Ashes is because it is about everything you have lost...faith...love...hope. But you can still be renewed, my friend.

    Personally, and I am obviously biased, I was actually surprised by the production value and acting. Does the film have flaws, sure, but do these flaws leave the thinking person without plenty to contemplate, oh hell no.

    I suggest this film to everyone whom I discuss films with. Please don't allow some too much time having jealous narcissist deter you from enjoying not only this movie, but it's message.
  • comment
    • Author: Kanal
    Indie film making at it's finest. Story development was spot on as well as character arcs. It's a feat just to see a indie film make it through to completion.... and when it does so in such raw and precise fashion, as it does in Ashes of Eden, it's a breath of fresh air. Kudos to the film makers. Looking forward to keeping these film makers on my radar to see what comes next. They certainly are in the industry for a reason and are here to stay.
  • comment
    • Author: Fordg
    This movie was well written and directed. It depicts how someone with good intentions, can get into a bad situation. It will make you think about the choices you make in life or the choices that others make in their life to try to better themselves. This is a must see movie that older children could learn some valuable life lessons from.
  • comment
    • Author: Jorad
    I noticed a lot of bad reviews on this film. What's more interesting to me is that all of the authors of the one and two star reviews have blank profiles. Also, all of those IMDb profiles were created in July of 2014 and all the poor reviews seem to say the same thing, just written slightly different to give the appearance of a new and independent review. I'm not saying that, without a doubt, this is the work of one person (who claims in one of his reviews to be a still photographer and DP). I am saying it's possible that there is a hater out there who's simply doing his best to discredit his competition by writing false reviews. Don't be fooled by phony profiles and inaccurate information. I've worked on a couple of projects with the folks from Collective Development and they have always exceeded my expectations with the quality of films they produce. I recommend everyone watch Ashes of Eden and 40 Nights (soon to be released) and make your own decision. Much like ourselves in Yuma, AZ, the Ashes of Eden production team are local people who are doing everything they can to produce high quality films on a very small budget. They're doing it for the love of filmmaking and arts, not to get rich. Please take a few moments and watch these movies and give them your own honest review.
  • comment
    • Author: Eseve
    There are clearly a few fake reviews on here about this movie. It also looks as though someone has clicked "2 stars" repeatedly about 100 times within a short time frame. Why would someone do that? I feel like you should watch this movie for yourself and make your own decision. Then, write an HONEST review and not some hate-stalking-troll review. Here's my honest review: I adored this movie. I loved the gritty and believable characters, each one well developed and engaging. The storyline was keen and relevant, emotionally pulling me in to the plight of the plot. I have seen other movies by this company and they are equally fantastic and well done. I look forward to any new endeavors, as I know they will be well developed and done with great passion. Keep up the great work!
  • comment
    • Author: Grillador
    This film was great, I loved the message, it was well thought out and the story line flowed very well. The locations for the film made it feel more real to true life. I definitely recommend this film to everyone, very well done! The actors chosen represented the characters very well. This movie can be related to on so many levels with the struggles that people have in life and that if one tries that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
  • comment
    • Author: Bladecliff
    Not only is the cinematography well done from camera angles to overall quality, I love the acting, this is a well-produced story from start to finish. I loved the acting, I really connected with many of the characters. I loved the scene on the bridge and the dialogue there. This movie captured my heart and told a story that we all need to experience. This is a must watch movie!
  • comment
    • Author: Shou
    Exciting to watch. Kept me interested the whole time. Movie was not too long or too short. I thought the acting was very good by the cast. The directing was well done. I think it shows the cast worked very hard to get the film right. Overall I thought this was a great movie and I would recommend others to watch it. Good job Ashes of Eden!!
  • comment
    • Author: Truthcliff
    This movie is so close to an experience a friend of mine is going through with her daughter. While watching the film I couldn't stop thinking of my friend and all the turmoil she is encountering every day. This film has put so much perspective on what people experience in their lives on a daily basis. After watching this movie I must say I am ever so thankful that my kids have not been caught up in the world of crime. The story was well told along with sharing so many eye opening events. Share this movie with your family and friends so that they are aware of issues like this that are happening to so many people. In my first submit I missed one very important fact. At times we have family movie night. All too often a movie becomes dull, boring, slow etc., and I fall asleep. My family often rates a movie by the amount of time I am awake. For this one, it kept my interest, I didn't fall asleep and hoped it would have kept going. It held my interest throughout the entire film. Would have appreciated a continuation.
  • comment
    • Author: zzzachibis
    What moves me about this film is the work ethic and the dedication made by many to support an individual, who not only stepped to the edge, but JUMPED, and put his words and thoughts out there for everyone to see.

    Prior to watching the film I discovered that several cast members were moved by the story line and the true meaning behind the writer/director, (Shane Hagedorn's) vision. Shane took his personal feelings and beliefs, forged them into a story, and was led to begin the journey of producing a secular based film, despite the obvious resistance.

    I wasn't very familiar with the film industry in Lansing Michigan. From what I understood the city is/was in financial trouble. Obtaining support and financial security had to be almost impossible. It's very inspiring and motivating to see an individuals desires come to fruition.

    From what I understand some of the actors in this film have had some pretty successful careers and some pretty recognizable roles. When I heard that these same individuals were giving their time and talent to support Shane and his beliefs, I couldn't help to be humbled. To me this is what the film industry in many levels may be lacking.

    This movie shows heart, faith, desire, and imagination. This film should be a platform for ANY and ALL actors, producers, writers and directors. This film should show case the endless possibilities one can achieve with just a little bit of Faith. I can't wait to see more of Shane's visions. (The sound track is NUTS!!!!)
  • comment
    • Author: Ishnsius
    The tone of the film was consistent, the story was something I followed to the very end. It wasn't all over the place, it was focused. I felt emotion while watching it. You know? It makes the viewer feel something, even if at first they don't understand what. Perhaps its the underlined naivete of your lead character and the mother's love and predicament as an officer of the law. This wasn't shabby or forced in it's conception. I also appreciate your eye for camera shots. It works. I watched it to the very end. Very good scene work with Melissa Anschutz and Bello Pizzimenti. For one person to have written, co-produced, directed and edited this film its a testament to the human spirit of determination. That as well as the film, deserves applause.
  • comment
    • Author: Damand
    I had a chance to watch this film in theaters during its short theatrical run in Lansing, MI. I had the opportunity to meet a few individuals involved in the production. First off, I would like to congratulate the cast and crew for executing a well made film. It has the components one looks for in a film, unfortunately the film is about two or three edits away from being a home-run success. The story starts off with an immediate impact, the opening sequence was fantastically, edge of your seat good. The music, the editing and the scene itself grabs you and takes you on a ride. Fantastic opening!! Unfortunately the film quickly falls flat and fails to deliver throughout. I understand the filmmakers were going for a christian/pg-13 feel but why change the tone of the film throughout?! The film went into a silly over dramatic daytime soap opera episode. The score at points were incredibly cheesy. Please keep in mind that the entire film, thankfully, isn't all like this but one to many scenes are. There are some amazing moments throughout the film that take you for a ride unfortunately that ride ends when such scenes come forward. For example: A scene in the kitchen with Dana (Melissa Anschultz) Tony Hanson (Michael Joiner) and Red (Steven Sutherland) is excruciatingly long and painful, the acting (way over the top) is underpar with the rest of the acting in the film and the score is absolutely horrible. The scene could have been saved IF there was a better score in the very least. Its odd though because the score is on point in many other scenes. The film looks fantastic, not sure what camera was used but it definitely has a big budget feel. The cinematography was also beautiful, kudos! The acting, for the most part, was on point for the exception of some over acting scattered here and there. Red (Steve Sutherland) was definitely a right fit, he shows a great pain of the demons that are buried inside him. I felt that his acting SOMETIMES had no range or came off as flat but it played well with the character. Overall, a solid performance. Dana (Melissa Anschultz) who plays an officer and mother to Red brings the tearjerking side of the film. The position of what will go wrong will go wrong that we have all come across in points of our lives, applies here. I do feel however, her acting was a bit over the top, more suited for a stage performance. I felt some scenes were longer then they needed to be, perhaps the director was giving her more screen time then needed? Her character seemed to get better as the film went on and definitely had some heart pulling moments. Tony Hanson (Michael Joiner) played his part well although didn't seem to be a principle/role model type to me. Acting was spot on anytime he was on the screen but his appearance, for some reason pulled me out of those scenes. Perhaps I'm just nit picking now. Donnie (Dj Perry) an old vet turned bad guy looked and acted the part well, my favorite scene was his engagement with another fellow "Bad guy" Carlos (Carlucci Weyant). Unfortunately, he was not in many scenes but the scenes he was involved in definitely shined through. A+. Carlos (Carlucci Weyant) comes in about a quarter of the way through. He is a highlight in this film. I hated this man. Every scene that Carlos comes in (for the exception of an over the type kick fest on a local drug dealer) was worth the price of admission. He shined through in every scene and actually saves the film from going into a terrible unraveling of sappy soap opera, lifetime TV. Fantastic emotional arcs here! Excellent casting. Angela (Mayra Leal) was good as Reds girlfriend, there were some very good moments and some not so good. A specific scene that sticks out (most likely the editors fault) was a number reaction shots of Angela when Red fights a fellow friend upon catching him with Angela. Her expressions are almost comical. I asked myself would anyone really react in that way? and why so many closeups? Finally, my second favorite character (another bad guy) was Poncho (Josh Carrizales) he served as the comic relief in the picture and was a perfect counterpart for Carlos. These two helped if not made the film, they made me thirsty for more. Poncho's acting was superb and kept you engaged and in the moment every time. Superb acting! Again, great casting. The rest of the cast was good and believable. The direction was also very well done. The story as a whole unfolds perfectly although the execution of some scenes are just to weak. The film was SO close to being a great film from start to finish. The editing (in some scenes), some acting and some of the score is unfortunately what will prevent this film from going to a level it could. Shame. Hope this was a test to see how audiences reacted. My two cents? Re edit! and make the film carry the same feel/tone throughout, stay away from the daytime TV death trap. I loved the message in the film and would absolutely love to see some of the actors in this film get the attention they deserve. Should you watch this film? I say yes, it has a number of wonderful elements and a good message behind it.
  • comment
    • Author: Deorro
    What can I say? I knew about this film for some time, but I didn't expect to see such an amazing movie. The acting is powerful. The story is touching and moving. A mother going through some of the worst moments of her life and tries to keep it together. Her son, straying from her protection, but never her love, tests the relationship. This film is a must see. A product of hard work and a labor of love.
  • comment
    • Author: Kizshura
    After getting an opportunity to watch this film at the Capital City Film Festival, I fell in love with the messages that were captured in this film. Between the crime and the drama, it was the faith that really brought this home. I'm very excited to see what this talented director and cast produce in the future.
  • comment
    • Author: Drelahuginn
    Very touching yet intense interpersonal relationships throughout the film. Loved the setting in a small town community. Well acted and very believable character portrayals. Ashes of Eden slowly develops its characters so the viewer can readily identify with so many decision points and key moments in the film. A true testament and test of Faith for the main characters.
  • comment
    • Author: Goktilar
    I was very impressed by the film and it's overall quality. The acting was well done and the story was constructed well. The themes of a good crime drama are present throughout but what is different is the element of faith. I believe this is a story that all should experience and can really draw something special away from. I am excited to see what comes next from this talented director and expect great things on the horizon.
  • comment
    • Author: Roru
    Seeing this film was definitely an enriching experience. I just saw Ashes Of Eden an excellent piece of storytelling written & directed by Shane Hagedorn. I highly recommend this beautiful clever story. Just an excellent made in Michigan indie film in my mind. I go see films to go for an experience & Ashes of Eden delivered that.

    I still approach the movie going experience with an open mind ,that is open to be moved as an audience. I ask -Did I enjoy the experience? I try to never over- intellectualizing, or sitting in judgment to seek the bad or challenge a film. I stay open & hope it does when experiencing art-- unless it jars me out of the film so badly I must ask why. This film did not jar me out. If it was interesting, moving, touching, compelling, educational or entertaining. And I went for an enriching experience -then it did its job. Bottom line is I enjoyed the experience. What stood out to me was the story-a well written moving, touching & clever drama. You were interested & even cared about some of these characters. Here was story telling that took me for an emotional journey.

    I must mention some stand-out performances that stayed in my mind even after: the mother{ Melissa Anschutz} gave a truly excellent, interesting ,memorable performance of human truth .The little boy Jake{ Drew Wise}, the girlfriend{ Mayra Leal} & the along with the best friend played with truth & interesting choices by {Bello Pizzimenti}an actor with much screen presence , the drug dealer { DJ Perry} as well as Shane Hagedorn {cast well as the police partner } to name a few. They brought human truth in the given circumstances to the screen. Even the small part of the girlfriend of Poncho played by {Denise Emilia} you see an instant star quality-that says who was that actress in her very small part. Overall -one senses all the actors who were cast –truly gave their best in this & that care is felt. All of them together along with the writing took us for an experience. Also in the film were some wonderful camera shots along with the excellent music choices added to the emotional experience.

    Over all-Ashes of Eden was a positive enjoyable movie going experience. And a positive addition to the current & future New Wave of film making coming out of Michigan.
  • comment
    • Author: Gaudiker
    Good film , everyone from the cast and crew did a fantastic job. The cinematography was spot on.Good story, well written. Indie film making at it's best.This film make you think about the choices we make. The film will keep your interest from start to finish. Recommend that you watch it, you won't be disappointed.
  • comment
    • Author: Thofyn
    All movies done by Shane Hagedorn have a beautiful message that people need to pay attention to. Beautiful and heartwarming story that emphasizes the important things in life. Surprised to see bad reviews, maybe if people paid attention to the message of the movie, we wouldn't get caught up in the nit-picky details. O enjoy the fact that new actors were employed, we all have to start somewhere!
  • comment
    • Author: Brick my own
    This movie at least hits the fundamentals and doesn't pander. Two big wins that can often fall flat in this genre and seeming finance tier. If studios were pouring their resources into more movies like Ashes, The flubs would be daring and different at least and the successes would teach us about ourselves in a needed way. Solid performances, directing and a decently shot little flick.
  • comment
    • Author: you secret
    This film was great. It reminded me of myself when I was younger. Someone who gets lost and falls off track. I've learned that you can fall off track but still be a great person. Side influences can sometimes hinder you just like it did with this young gentlemen. Awesome flick.
  • comment
    • Author: Grinin
    This story is almost "too close for comfort" to my own life, a story of good kids making bad choices and through faith finding a way to redemption. Shane Hagedorn expresses his understanding of a God who loves us beyond our choices and offers grace. I've watched this movie many times, each time with different eyes. At the premiere I was excited to be among those who got to witness the vision and creativity of local Michigan talent. I watched again to see the scenery filmed in my "neighborhood". I watched again to see the characters developed and the story played out, sometimes it's me as the mom watching my son go through bad choices and sometimes it's me reliving a bad time in my life. This is a great story to watch with young people, a great conversation starter. Looking forward to more from Shane Hagedorn and his "crew".
  • comment
    • Author: Cobyno
    The ASHES OF EDEN film is a gritty, streetwise film that may be a challenge for Christ-followers to watch and, alternatively, may be hard for those who are not Christ-followers (because of the Message in the mess).

    However, there is redemption in the story--and there are glimmers of hope despite every effort to snuff out that hope. Be forewarned: there are instances of drug use, a violent murder, fighting, some bed scenes (that remain PG level)--but these are all present to show a real world where Christ seems the furthest and least likely to break in, and to show genuine threat to the main character.

    The acting is good, and the story entertaining to watch--though, as I said above, it may be difficult for some viewers. Considering what is out there that's supposed to "entertain," ASHES OF EDEN entertains but also gives a glimpse of emptiness without Christ versus the fullness that exists in Christ. Recommended.
  • comment
    • Author: Gigafish
    Appreciated the message and cinematography of this film, as well as the soundtrack. The protagonist and his brother acted the parts very well, and my standards for younger/child actors are pretty high. Some absolutely stunning shots of mid-Michigan, and I didn't feel force-fed a particular emotion as the audience member. Overall, well-developed characters and plot structure and a solid end product for an independent film.
  • comment
    • Author: Drelalak
    There are so many things wrong with this movie it is hard to know where to begin. A poorly written script, bad casting choices, and sub-par acting are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes the crappy things about this movie. But being a still photographer and a DP as well, I will key in on, what was for me, the worst part of Ashes of Eden. To begin with, the scenes are set up like a sitcom. We are often given the stock shot of the building, just to reinforce to the viewer where the scene will take place, which is incredibly cheesy and just plain awful. Granted, they felt that they needed to do this in certain cases, because the main scene was clearly not filmed where it was supposed to take place. Case in point, early on there is a scene in a church. The scene is not filmed in a church. It doesn't even look anything like a church. It looks more like a meeting room at a local hotel. So we get the obligatory opening shot of the exterior of some random church. Opening exterior shots of a church or a school do not add anything to the story and often point out, rather blatantly, that this is a very cheaply done movie. However much the stock shots detract from the movie, they are eclipsed by the horrendous camera work and lighting. The choice of camera shots shows little regard for the development of the story. The camera is often set up in the most bland and uninspired way. The cuts between shots are usually harsh and arbitrary, and they highlight the poor editing choices that comprise a scene. But by far the worst aspect of all of this is the lighting. Everything is lit completely flat. The scenes lack depth or any sort of understanding about the use of darkness and light to enhance the story. This gives the movie a sitcom or commercial look, in which everything in the scene is evenly lit. It would not surprise me to find that the DP has been primarily working in the commercial field. Couple these camera problems to a weak story and actors who are not age appropriate, you have to recipe for a extremely lackluster movie
  • Credited cast:
    Steven Sutherland Steven Sutherland - Red
    Melissa Anschutz Melissa Anschutz - Dana
    Michael Joiner Michael Joiner - Tony Hanson
    DJ Perry DJ Perry - Donnie
    Carl Weyant Carl Weyant - Carlos (as Carlucci Weyant)
    Mayra Leal Mayra Leal - Angela
    Shane Hagedorn Shane Hagedorn - Shawn Nichols
    Abigail Mason Abigail Mason - Jesse
    Bello Pizzimenti Bello Pizzimenti - Vargas
    Drew Wise Drew Wise - Jake
    Josh Carrizales Josh Carrizales - Ponch
    Tim Holmes Tim Holmes - Axel
    Rest of cast listed alphabetically:
    Mark Boyd Mark Boyd - Dr. Strauss
    Steve Carley Steve Carley - Prison Inmate
    Mary Grace Casanova Mary Grace Casanova - Aunt Concha
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