The first film from writer/director Brad Rosier has already received quite the reception from film festivals from all over. Currency is an intelligent and compelling film that weaves together, according to Rosier's own description, " a tapestry of tales as we observe sevearl lives over the course of eight decades."

A writer asks why we live.

A child asks why we die.

An old woman asks why we are alone.

Mobsters ask why life has value.

A scientist asks why there is anything at all.

You'll find yourself asking "Where the heck has Brad Rosier been?"

The film features a stellar ensemble cast that includes Damon T. Davis, Rachel Cottom, Nora Batteast, Brittany Baughman and quite a few others. There's not a weak link amongst the cast, a credit to Rosier's direction and his ability to communicate his vision for the film.

Currency has Rosier's hands all over its production, with Rosier maintaining responsibility for or involvement in writing, directing, editing, cinematography, visual effects, producing and more. It's an independent film in every sense of the word, but it's an independent film that looks like it was created by a filmmaking veteran.

The film has already played in 18 film festivals while picking up awards at Atlanta Underground Film Festival, Santa Rosa International Film Festival, Accolade 2012, Honolulu Film Awards, River Bend Film Festival, Blue Whiskey Independent Film Festival and The Indie Film Competition. Central Indiana film fans may very well even recognize the film from its appearance at Anderson's Homegrown Hoosier Film Festival.

The film isn't flawless, but it's a remarkably confident and ambitious film that works in the vast majority of the ways that it's supposed to work. It's a film that leaves you thinking, feeling and having been changed by the experience of watching it.

If you get a chance, check it out.

© Written by Richard Propes
The Independent Critic