The Flats

Running time: N/A

US Premiere Both a striking and poetically honest debut from brothers Kelly and Tyler Requa, The Flats is a deeply compelling story of two best friends, their longings and aspirations, and the test of faith each must face. Harper is the life of every party. An empty childhood and a dismal future have left him with little to look forward to other than his nightly drunken obliteration. When one night the party goes too far, and Harper is sentenced to six months at a work farm, he decides to live it up for the eight days of freedom that he has left. Harper's best friend, Luke, is the voice of reason. From a good family with a solid background, he is spending the summer as a law intern. While Luke struggles each day in the law office, Harper entertains Luke's girlfriend, Paige. Harper and Paige spend their lazy summer afternoons riding horseback, swimming, and discovering in each other their strength and understanding. Despite a life filled with meaningless female pursuits, Harper begins to realize the extent of his feelings for Paige. Inevitably, their bond becomes too great, and Harper must choose between love and the only true friend he has ever had. Set in the desolate and gorgeous plains of rural Washington state, a young, top-notch cast deals with the pitfalls and consequences of becoming adults with an awkward grace that shows the complexity of their characters and the strength of their choices. - Jennifer Glynn