Sometimes, the best of thrillers have the simplest premise.
In Cold Road, Tracy (Rosanne Supernault) is an Indigenous woman who gets the call that her mother is near death. Out of concern for her family, she and her dog immediately get in the car and head north on the frozen remote highway home. Along the way, Tracy finds herself hunted by a mysterious stranger in a semi-truck who seems determined to derail her journey, leaving her no choice but to fight for her life.
Directed by Kelvin Redvers, Cold Road is a surprisingly solid thriller that doesn’t leave the viewer cold. For a film that takes place (almost) entirely on the open road, the film understands how to build a set piece. Throughout much of the film, Redvers keeps the camera tightly upon Tracy and the vehicle. In doing so, he creates a claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps the viewer trapped within its doors. Outside the vehicle, there is nothing but the growing darkness.
But inside, there is nowhere to run.
As a result, scenes on the open road carry a sense of dread as Tracy attempts to outrun her relentless (and faceless) attacker. In fact, for an independent film, one can’t help but be impressed with the effectiveness of the ‘hunt’, especially in scenes that require stunt driving.
Left alone amidst the frozen terrain, Redvers ensures the Tracy never feels safe. Along this Cold Road, each opportunity for comfort is quickly taken away from her. Whether it’s a policeman racially profiling her or a sister who believes her to be a ‘pushover’, Tracy is constantly subjected to the judgment of others. What’s more, even though she’s constantly in peril, Tracy finds little support. She is a woman who may have been beaten down by culture (and family), but there is an inner strength within her that begins to rise as the film goes on.
In this way, much credit must be given to Supernault’s performance here as she delivers some wonderful work as Tracy. Left alone onscreen for much of the film, the role of Tracy would be considerably daunting for many. But Supernault owns the performance, leaning into her character’s insecurities. In this world, Tracy has been abandoned but Supernault gives her a quite rage that empowers her as she drives forward.
Admittedly, the film does have its weak spots. Some performances by side characters feel a little wooden at times and camera work can feel awkwardly placed in moments. Even so, Redvers and Supernault carry the film with such intensity and enthusiasm that one can’t help but get caught up in the drama.
Cold Road is available on VOD/Digital on Tuesday, March 5th, 2024.
