East of the Mountains

 

             Tom Skerritt stars as Ben Givens, a terminally ill, retired heart surgeon who embarks on one last hunting trip with his dog Rex, intending to end his life. They venture into the mountains of Eastern Washington State but things do not turn out as planned.

             Mr. Skerritt who is 87 years old but still remarkably spry is just terrific. He is in just about every scene and gives a very emotional and at times physically demanding performance as he looks back on his past and assesses his future. 

              The film contains some surprising moments of suspense and yet is filled with warmth and grace. The camera captures the beautiful landscapes of Eastern Washington and has very engaging co-stars, Annie Gonzales, Wally Dalton and as Ben's concerned daughter, Mira Sorvino.