Sometimes a short movie delivers a stronger dramatic wallop than many a full-length feature. Winter Nights, Kevin Ling’s directorial debut, is one of those films. Although depicting a most unusual kidnapping, it’s about so much more. Second chances, forgiveness, misunderstandings, and pride come together in an impressive story about how a life empty of love can seem like “sleeping on a block of ice.”  

Through a series of flashbacks, we slowly discover why Megan Snow (Ilana Guralnik), a very determined young lady, has kidnapped Colton Winters (Tony Mathews), a WWII veteran, -- and at the point of a gun. These two seem to be connected in some way, and Ling does an excellent job of building suspense concerning what that connection might be. We may have our suspicions, but we’re not sure until the final sequence.  

Both Guralnik and Mathews deliver performances which help enhance the suspense during their characters’ bumpy journey to a destination where the secret is revealed. When we finally understand why Megan became involved in such a risky plan, we can’t help cheering for her boldness.

Elaine Levin also stands out in the fine supporting cast. She makes her character seem wise and compassionate in her key scene.

With Winter Nights, newcomer Ling shows considerable talent as a filmmaker. I hope to see more from him!  (Capsule review)

For additional details about Winter Nights, go to winternights.info.   

(Released by Think Mass Media Pictures; not rated by MPAA.)