From the opening faceoff to the final moments of family joy, Still The Water delivers the perfect amount of maritime magic and shows us all, forgiveness is possible.

This Mighty Ocean Film production which was written and directed by Susan Rodgers, takes you on a journey to Malpeque Bay, Prince Edward Island, Canada and connects you to the McAulay family. This relatable bunch is stick-handling through adversity while doing their best to keep love flowing through the crisp east-coast air.

Rodgers provides us all with breathtaking shots of P.E.I and does a wonderful job displaying the natural beauty of the coast-lined community. The plot is heavy, the characters all vastly different, and the soundtrack is well-timed and perfectly compliments the mood of each scene with its acoustic vibe.

Co-star Ry Barrett, who plays Jordie McAulay – a semi-pro hockey player who loves to run away from his problems, introduces us to a character that has no other choice but to go home. Malpeque just happens to be the last place on his mind and Barrett’s stuck with unwanted hockey stardom and a family who are surprised as ever to see his face.

Barrett was tasked with a very complex character with a decorated past, who would rather just be left alone. The only problem is, he needs his family, even though he knows it won’t be easy trying to reignite the McAulay magic.

The eldest McAulay boy Nicky, played by co-star Colin Price, is a hard-nosed emotional basket-case who can let his temper get in the way of his message. Price couldn’t be harder on his younger brother, and his character takes over a couple of scenes perfectly with his raw-emotion. Although appearing confused at times, Price’s character is rooted with love and hard-work, and this ‘typical’ eldest of the bunch just wants what’s best for his family. Price’s breakout performance is intense, it’s fierce and the foundation is stemmed with a heavy heart.

Can Someone lighten the mood, please?

Introducing Noah McAulay, the youngest brother, played by Spencer Graham. Noah is everyone’s favourite uncle and from his opening scene provides the movie with some comedic relief that gets funnier by the minute. Graham lays on the ‘down home’ lingo and his wit and carefree mentality perfectly compliment his older brothers in the film. Graham could have easily been the forgotten brother when it was all said and done, and that’s not the case at all. Graham’s performance endorses love, laughter, and free spirit and he certainly deserves a wealth of praise for his efforts.

While the MacAulay brothers magic was certainly front and centre in Still The Water, Christina McInulty worked double duty to not only play the not-so innocent girl next door, but also someone who grinds out her passion for music at the local pub. McInulty’s character, Abby Ryan keeps the MacAulay family on their toes. It’s a truly diverse role as the character’s sincere, compassionate, and someone who herself has dealt with unbearable tragedy. The west-coast based actress delivers a thorough east-coast personality with a huge heart.

Still The Water was a film that pulled you in through pain and suffering and healed through stunning scenery and newfound forgiveness. Rodgers did a marvellous job showing off PEI to the world and her story was an emotional ride. The cast was a group that complimented each other perfectly and more importantly they delivered.

The movie has made its way coast-to-coast across Canada and is currently streaming at the Whistler Film Festival.

Find yourself some time to meet the MacAulay family. You won’t regret it, b’y.