A true-to-form character study at its core, William Stafford's Kilimanjaro is both unique and familiar. While a story detailing a man's journey to fight through the mundane valleys in life isn't anything new, the stylistic approach and simplistic manner of the film's telling helps to generate a rare sense of raw authenticity.
Brian Geraghty plays Doug Collins, a typical young professional who finds himself coping after a hard breakup and the loss of his grandfather. In an attempt to lead a more fulfilling life, Doug plans a trip that will see him at the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest point. But life pushes back, forcing Doug to make some major decisions that will ultimately shape his future.
Though the film shows it budget at numerous points, Stafford embraces the rough texture by allowing the audience to enter into his world and feel part of the story. You, as a viewer, grow increasingly involved as Doug struggles to understand his place in the world, though several actions make you question his progress as he continues to see life through blinders, rarely venturing outside the box for anything.
I will say that I often found myself frustrated with the lack of character development for all of our leading characters, especially Doug. Though the main cast shares an unusually strong chemistry, it is hard to understand their history and tolerance for one another. Has Doug always been a pushover? Has he changed since his now ex-girlfriend Clare entered the picture? What is his relationship with her parents? All of these questions would have led to a better understanding of both our protagonist and his familiar situation. Sadly, we were left guessing for much of the film.
The end result is a bit of a mixed bag. Geraghty and company deliver great performances, bringing forth a group of relatable characters, but our lack of information prevents us from getting too close. In the end, I was satisfied with what I saw, I just know that that the potential was there for something much deeper and more engaging.
