Created by Crimson Wing Films, the first thing that stands out about A Trip Elsewhere is the cinematography. We have high-quality visuals in classic teal and orange grading that strike you and capture your attention. You would never guess that the film was made on a low budget. In fact, we’re not the only ones who think so.
Despite having been out for a short amount of time, the film has already accomplished a number of achievements. A Trip Elsewhere premiered at “The Love and Hope International Film Festival (LHIFF)” in Barcelona, Spain in September of 2024 with actress Andrea Geones winning Best Actress Feature Film for her portrayal of Sorina Hart in the film - which makes sense because her Groundhog Day meets amnesia plot was fantastic. It has also won 5 awards at the “Creation International Film Festival” for Best Actress, Best Comedic Actress, Judge’s Choice, Best Ensemble, and Best Comedy Feature. These are just to name a couple of milestones. These acknowledgments are a testament to the cinematic caliber of the project.
The camerawork and editing come together to create amazing on-screen synergy, particularly in the scenes when our characters are tripping. We feel their high with them, thanks to the mimicked motions of the scene. Not to mention that the sound design also played a big role in how immersed you were in the film. We have to mention that not only did the sound design replicate the narrative world to the viewer, but it also played with us - pulling us in and out of the crucial moments. For example, pausing a build-up of music just as a truth bomb/surprising fact is dropped. The same can be said for the special effects. Techniques like these played a huge part in what made the film so engaging.
As far as the actor portrayals go, you can tell why this cast has been praised as an ensemble. Whilst each actor did their character justice, their performance was made that much stronger by their chemistry. They pulled off the whole awkward strangers who make a questionable decision and inevitably become close through the power of drugs and trying to navigate their high together to a tee.
The film was inspired by an article that director J.R. Sawyers read about a bipolar woman’s experimentation with psychedelics and the healing impact that it had on her. Hence, the film explores themes of dreaming both out loud and subconsciously and the psychological and emotional possibilities that exist in this realm of prospect. Going on this trip (pun intended) is not just about going for a psychological thrill ride, but also about the redemption and connection that can be found during that journey alongside others. What’s real? What’s imaginary? And what does that mean to us as people, both alone and collectively? A Trip Elsewhere poses these questions but also answers them, leaving room for interpretation.
Wondering where to watch the film? You can watch the trailer for A Trip Elsewhere below and rent the film on Vimeo. Additionally, the film will be coming to streaming platforms Amazon Prime and Apple TV in December of this year, too.
What did you think of A Trip Elsewhere? Let us know in the comments!
