Danielle Solzman
A Stone in the Water is a gripping psychological thriller in Oregon that finds one woman getting into something far bigger than she knows.
Following a brief prologue to set the tone, we’re introduced to Alex Parker (Melissa Fumero). We don’t know much about her other than she’s on the run from Frank (David Fumero). Viewers will come to learn she’s pregnant. One thing leads to another and Alex soon heads to live with Martha (Bonnie Bedelia). Martha and Grace (Mary Kilpatrick) have been best friends for over 35 years. The two of them have their own secrets between each other. All I will say, at minimum, is that Alex decides to take advantage of them. This soon becomes her downfall so to speak.
Paying homage to thrillers that came before, Martha wants to steal Alex’s child. Bonnie plays this part so well. Let’s put it this way: things happen in this film for a reason. What Martha doesn’t know is that Frank is looking for Alex. This is where I’m going to leave things kind of vague but other than that, all you need to know is that both Martha and Frank are not nice people. I can’t really say more here because it’ll get into spoiler territory.
I’m so used to seeing Melissa Fumero in police comedy Brooklyn Nine-Nine. In this film, the actress is delivering a performance against type. If any filmmakers are paying attention out there, the actress can do more than just comedy. I hope that the actress gets more chances to show off what she can do in dramas and thrillers. If this film is any indication, she will have a fine post-Brooklyn career.
As far as the film itself is concerned, it’s a low-budget indie through and through. But in spite of the budget, the film is an effective thriller. The entire production takes place in Bend, Oregon.
Small indie films like A Stone in the Water do not get the attention they deserve. Like many indies during the past year, it’s just another film to choose from. This is unfortunate. But for what it’s worth, A Stone in the Water is a capable and gripping thriller.
DIRECTOR/SCREENWRITER: Daniel M. Cohen
CAST: Bonnie Bedelia, Melissa Fumero, David Fumero, Mary Kilpatrick, Kim Leemans
