Movies that feature fly fishing are few and far between. There are, however, two personal favorites that come to mind, Robert Redford’s “A River Runs Through It” and Lasse Hallström’s “Salmon Fishing in the Yemen.” Like those two films, Joshua Caldwell’s “Mending the Line” incorporates the therapeutic yet challenging sport that serves as a backdrop for the main story, which in this case is war veterans dealing with PTSD. Featuring strong performances and a solid cast that includes Sinqua Walls (“White Men Can’t Jump”), plus seasoned greats Brian Cox and Wes Studi, the heartwarming film examines the alienation and trauma many “wounded warriors” experience and their journey towards peace and purpose.

Written by Stephen Camelio, a regular contributor to “Field & Stream” and a fly fisherman, he took up the sport as a therapeutic way to deal with grief after his father, a Vietnam Veteran, passed away in 2013 from cancer caused by exposure to Agent Orange. Director Joshua Caldwell, whose Instagram showcases his love for fly fishing, had been searching for a story relating to PTSD and its effects on veterans when Camelio’s script made its way to him. Shot in Montana, the film features stunning cinematography by Eve Cohen and slow-motion trout footage by Gilbert Rowley and Ryan Kelly...

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You don’t have to be a veteran or know a veteran to enjoy Joshua Caldwell’s film. Anyone who has been affected by the loss of a loved one can relate to the touching story. With summer getting underway and blockbusters filling theater screens, it’s easy for a small indie film to get overlooked. Give “Mending the Line” a chance and you’ll be hooked just like the trout in the memorable film.

Check out the full review here

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