Our Bureau
Charlotte, NC
The film community here came out in full force to pack the Charlotte Independent Picture House on consecutive weekends for the indie psychological thriller, TORN. Making its premiere during Charlotte’s film festival to a sold-out crowd and then packing the same 105-seat auditorium a week later for a private screening, TORN marks the return of Alfonso René Freeman to the big screen as the small-town Sheriff Mike Lewis.
Produced by D Star Entertainment’s Mukesh Modi and Ashwin film’s Manoj Narula, TORN follows a troubled father, Peter Stube (Jordon Alexander), who has purposefully chosen the small Appalachian town of Bilford for its isolated location, so he can disconnect and self-heal from the wounds of his past. Confining himself within the four walls of a small hunting cabin forces him to reflect on his former life, but without the proper therapy, he ends up berating himself for his downward spiral.
Unfortunately for Peter, Bilford is dealing with some turmoil of its own. Previously, the nearby wolf population was only known for inspiring some werewolf lore, but now with a dwindling food source, the wolves have encroached on the townsfolk’s livestock and livelihood, inspiring panic and fear. Without hunters renting out mountain properties, eating in the diners, or shopping on Main Street, the blame for the sudden decline of the town rests on the broad shoulders of Sheriff Mike Lewis.
Both men use each other as they aim to set their lives straight, but are continuously faced with previous mistakes. Their friendship, born out of deceit and distrust may not survive Peter’s obsession with the local werewolf lore and eventual downward spiral but it won’t stop the Sheriff from genuinely wanting to ensure Peter’s well-being.
TORN is director Ryen William Thomas’ third feature film and he masterfully weaves a cautionary tale of a man captivated by conspiracy and ultimately unable to determine the difference between reality and fantasy. The psychological drama will keep the audience engaged long after the credits roll as they discuss various theories of what is and isn’t real.
Not only starring as Peter Stube, Jordon Alexander also co-wrote with first-time screenwriter Benjamin Johnston. A tale 10 years in the making started taking shape during lunch breaks from their previous career as underwriters for an internationally known insurance company. Jordon Alexander and Alfonso René Freeman star alongside reality stars Hunter Thore, John Romanski, Paula Lacewell, Danielle Tarmey, and Danny.
