Movie Review: “A Thousand Miles Behind” Is A Testament To The Tumultuous Journey Of Processing Grief

A grieving man sets out on a solo trip across California after a motorcycle mysteriously turns up on his doorstep, but will the lonely road ultimately help him leave the past behind?

It seems almost fitting to be watching a film about processing grief when there is so much grief in the world around us right now. While many filmmakers delve into the depths of various tragedies, I find that very few are willing to remain on a path that explores redemption, forgiveness, and healing. However, “A Thousand Miles Behind” does not fall behind in its attempt to give viewers a chance to see how one individual explores the five stages of grief and possibly relate to the journey.

Jeffrey Doornbos stars as Preston Avery, a man who has found his whole world in his wife and daughter. However, when he loses that world to a drunk driving accident, we can only watch as he goes through the motions of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. His journey is not linear nor is it quick and easy, but his path may bring solace to those who struggle to take even the first step.

Although Preston chooses to leave on his motorcycle to escape from accepting his loss, he can’t be blamed for making that decision. Even after his world had gone silent, there is no peace and there is no silence from the people around him reaching out to express their condolences. Rather than claiming solace from those words, it becomes clear that their words actually become a thorn in his wounds. Preston is just lucky enough to have the privilege to physically run and he soon finds that being on the road is a chance to revisit just how beautiful the world is.

Many individuals don’t have the opportunity to run from their problems like Preston does nor do they meet people along the way who offer guidance during such a desperate time. However, this film offers a beacon of hope that even in times of loss and heavy grievances, the world and its people still breathe life. His escape from pain becomes a path towards accepting the loss, feeling the grief and learning to let go of the past.

Doornbos plays a believable Avery and creates a strong impression with the look of loss and confusion that often adorns his face. At first glance, his loner-like and mysterious demeanor seems like a typical impression of someone dealing with grief, but he is later revealed to be constantly at war between that grief and his need for companionship.

Vanessa Campbell plays Tracey, the woman that becomes Avery’s companion during his time on the road. She’s not the rebound nor the replacement female in Avery’s life, but someone who is passing by and giving Avery the push he needs to find his acceptance. Campbell shines on screen as the human that loves life too much to not share it with others and is a strong reminder that sometimes it helps to get out of our heads and be present with the world around us.

Perhaps the most enjoyable aspect of the film is the pacing of all the events. The film moves in tandem with Avery’s emotional state. Slow in the time where grief is the strongest, but sped up in times of joy and wonder when faced with the world and Tracey. Things may feel rushed when Avery tries to rush his healing or even drown it all away with liquor, but healing takes its time, just like good films.

Now available on Video-On-Demand