British Brothers Alex/Andrew Smith Direct WALKING OUT an Elegiac Tribute to Fathers and Sons

British born (1967) twin brothers, Alex & Andrew Smith's stunning feature film is breathless in scope and an irrepressible homage to the love between father & son. This majestic film is shot in the wintry Montana landscape.  David (an outstanding Josh Wiggins "Hellion") is visiting his father for winter holiday break.  David's father, Cal (an excellent Matt Bomer "Amer Horrow") is a skilled  countryman.  Cal is an accomplished hunter & leads a solitary existence.  Growing up, Cal and his father (played winningly by veteran TV/film star Bill Pullman) had a very strong & tender bond.  Their relationship viewed in flashbacks is told to David or seen in Cal's fond memories.  David who is 14 is given the rifle Dad received from his beloved father at that age.   A gilded hue enfolds Cal's recollections of him & father together hunting and fishing.   Reluctantly, David yields to his father's aim to hunt for moose with his dad out of intimidation & wanting to please him.  The movie succeeds as a suspenseful survivor story in the wild.  Moreover, it's a coming of age tale that is a paean to fatherhood and its mentoring, loving legacy.   Cal is a capable woodsman who imparts vital skills to David.  The father/son run afoul on the frozen rotunda when David gets attached by a bear.  The two must rely on each another to make it back safely.  Todd McMullen's breathtaking cinematography captures the natural beauty of the harsh, frozen landscape and indigenous wildlife.  There's a difference between killing and hunting and a vast difference between living and surviving.  This captivating film is based on the short story by American nature & travel writer David Quammen.  The lovely classical score to the film undermines its natural feel & credibility.  The film falters between being an art film & an immersive adventure film.  Still, WALKING OUT is a landmark achievement in filmmaking and well worth seeking.