THE WAKE UP

The quiet vulnerability of reserved cattle rancher Aiden Delacorte radiates through Nick Podehl's salt-of-the-earth performance. Aiden is not your typical hardened rancher, especially after he "wakes up" his latent ability to feel the emotions of the animals around him. At that point, he sets a new course for his life. Podehl's performance is a wonderful addition to this profound narrative, which is keenly focused on the importance of empathy and feelings in men. As Aiden struggles to bond with Milo, the troubled son of the woman he loves, Podehl's performance captures the terror and fear that are part of Milo's past. Podehl also provides a gentle touch as Aiden seeks out an insightful therapist to help the pair build a meaningful relationship. J.E.C. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2018]