Review by John Delia
In the movie The Ledge, the writer takes very little time with character development and gets right down to the center of the “who what where and why.” Now you may get the impression that this may be problematic to the entertainment value, but you would be wrong as this fine production keeps you on edge to the gut wrenching finale.
Best friends Kelly (Brittany Ashworth) and Sophie (Anaïs Parello) have come to a cabin just a short distance from one of the toughest challenges of their life. They plan to climb the face of a mountain where only the few have accomplished. In fact, it’s the place where Kelly lost her fiancé just a year ago. Wanting to make it to the top as a tribute to him, she can’t wait to get started in the morning.
That evening a group of 4 guys arrive and set up camp just below their cabin. Rowdy and apprehensive to climb the same mountain, the guys get drunk by a campfire. It’s the beginning of what leads to a chase up the side of the mountain to stay alive. Director Howard J. Ford sets up his story with two likable twentysomething ladies, then turns the heat up with four men that are out to have a wild weekend. He treats us to some excellent cinematography, nice acting and a lot of breathtaking scenes.
The Ledge will work well with the target audience of mature teens to thirties, especially those who avoid getting into the trap of thinking too far ahead. There are many surprises, but it’s the climbing and violence that should keep you on edge.
The Ledge’s R rating has not revealed an explanation for why they rated it that, but after watching the movie the following could be the reasons. The film has a lot of violence that includes some gruesome scenes, stabbings, and brutality. It also contains language and treacherous behavior. Drug use is also indicated, and attempted rape and there are sexual comments throughout. Mature teens over 17 should be able to attend as well as adults who are not squeamish. My overall rating for the target audience, production value and acting is 4 out of 5 stars.
Additional Film Information:
Cast: Brittany Ashworth, Ben Lamb, Louis Boyer, Nathan Welsh, Anaïs Parello, David Wayman
Directed by: Howard J. Ford
Genre: Drama, Thriller
MPAA Rating: R, but note the film has violence and gruesome scenes
Running Time: 1 hr. 26 min.
Opening Date: February 18, 2022
Distributed by: Saban Films and Paramount Pictures
Released in: Theaters, VOD and Digital platforms