"The Dry Land" follows a young man, James (O'Nan), as he returns home from a tour of duty. Having not found the direction and purpose he sought from the service, James hurls himself back into an old small-town life that no longer fits. Despite the support of his wife (Ferrera) and his mother (Leo), he is unable to settle in. James turns to an Army buddy (Martinez) for help, and together they travel the country in search of redemption. Thinking that the war was behind them, James comes to realize that the fight for his life has only begun. (Gary Reber)
Special features include commentary by Writer/Director Ryan Piers Williams and America Ferrera, the theatrical trailer, and resources for care of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The 1080p AVC picture was shot in the Super 16 mm format, which is approximately half the film image of Super 35. The picture appears soft throughout, with a color palette that is muted but generally natural in appearance. At times the hues exhibit a stronger, richer density, which makes for a much more appealing visual experience. Fleshtones are generally natural in appearance. Overall, this is a mediocre picture. (Gary Reber)
The Dolby® Digital 5.1-channel soundtrack is conventionally produced with production and ADR dialogue that sounds natural but not always efectively integrated spatially. Sound effects are pretty much limited to a frontal focus. The music score, featurig an acoustic guitar, is nicely recorded with a presence that extends to the surrounds. This is a low budget but serviceable soundtrack with no particular distinguishing qualities except for the music recording quality. (Gary Reber)