Watch The Burning Tree

The Burning Tree is a 2014 independent film starring Adam Wahlberg, Cole Geissler, and Wesley Green. The movie follows the story of three childhood friends, who reunite to confront their unresolved past and the demons that still haunt them. The film begins with a flashback that shows the three friends as children playing in the woods, where they stumble upon a burned-out tree. The tree becomes a symbol of the trauma they experienced that day, and each of them carries the weight of that event with them into adulthood.

Fast forward to the present day, and the friends have gone their separate ways. Adam Wahlberg's character, Chris, is a successful lawyer who is struggling with his marriage and is haunted by the memory of the burned tree. Cole Geissler's character, Curtis, is a recovering drug addict who is trying to get his life back on track after serving time in prison. Wesley Green's character, Jesse, is a loner who has been living off the grid in the woods for the past several years.

The three friends reunite after Chris receives a desperate call from Jesse, who has gone off the grid and is living in the woods near the burned tree. Chris convinces Curtis to come along, and the three set off on a journey to find Jesse and confront their past.

As they make their way through the woods, they face a series of challenges that force them to confront their deepest fears and insecurities. Along the way, they encounter a cast of characters who add depth and complexity to the story, including a group of survivalists who are preparing for the end of the world, a young woman who is mourning the loss of her brother, and a mysterious drifter who may hold the key to unlocking their past.

The Burning Tree is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores themes of trauma, redemption, and the healing power of friendship. The performances by Adam Wahlberg, Cole Geissler, and Wesley Green are nuanced and heartfelt, and the direction by first-time filmmaker John Smith is impressive.

One of the strengths of the film is its ability to create a sense of atmosphere and tension throughout, with the haunting imagery of the burned tree serving as a constant reminder of the past trauma that the characters are trying to escape. The cinematography is stunning, with breathtaking shots of the wilderness that evoke a sense of both beauty and danger.

Overall, The Burning Tree is a must-see film for anyone who enjoys thoughtful, character-driven dramas. Its exploration of complex themes and nuanced performances make it a standout independent film of recent years.