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Documentary

Refuge (2023): Cast, Ratings & Plot

Refuge (2023) movie poster

Refuge is a 2023 documentary directed by Din Blankenship and Erin Levin Bernhardt, starring Chris Buckley, Andrea Cervone and C.J. Buckley. It runs 1 hour 18 minutes. IMDb users rate it 7.7/10.

IMDb rating
7.7/10
Echo Score
81
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Refuge (2023) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 18m (78 min)
Genre
Documentary
Original language
Kurdish
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Refuge About?

The premise of Refuge without spoilers. The whole story is in the plot summary further down.

In rural Georgia, a former Ku Klux Klan leader and Vietnam veteran confronts his prejudices against Muslims following the events of 9/11. An unexpected connection forms with a Kurdish refugee cardiologist, leading to an unlikely friendship. Through their interactions, deeply ingrained beliefs are challenged, prompting a personal journey toward understanding diversity and tolerance. The evolving relationship explores themes of hate, forgiveness, and the meaning of being American, raising important questions about redemption and human connection.

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Cast & crew

Refuge Cast

Chris Buckley leads the cast, with Andrea Cervone and C.J. Buckley. Directed by Din Blankenship and Erin Levin Bernhardt; 10 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Refuge

· 6 more
Ratings

Refuge Reviews & Ratings

IMDb users rate Refuge 7.7/10. Our Echo Score gives it 81/100, strongest in art & craft (90) and weakest in story & flow (70).

81 /100

Refuge Echo Score Breakdown

In overall assessment, Refuge delivers a compelling blend of thematic relevance and visual craftsmanship, though its narrative structure occasionally wavers. Critics highlight the film’s nuanced portrayal of human experience and its resonant message about peace, while audiences commend the atmospheric cinematography and effective sound design. Some reviewers note predictability in the plot and limited character empathy, which temper the impact. Consequently, the film offers a rewarding but imperfect viewing experience that appeals to viewers seeking both emotional depth and sensory immersion.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 90

    In terms of art and craft, the film is consistently praised for its atmospheric cinematography, meticulous production design, and effective use of visual effects. Reviewers note an appropriate mood across varied situations, highlighting the director of photography’s skillful lighting and composition. The editing maintains tension without disrupting flow. Overall, the visual execution stands out as a major strength.

  • Character & Emotion 80

    When evaluating character and emotion, critics and viewers commend the nuanced performances that avoid stereotypes, with particular praise for lead actors’ ability to convey vulnerability. The chemistry between protagonists lends emotional weight to the narrative. However, some audience members report difficulty empathizing with certain characters, diminishing overall connection. In sum, the character work is largely effective, though not uniformly resonant.

  • Story & Flow 70

    The story and flow receive mixed reactions; many appreciate the film’s engagement with timely themes and its inventive blend of war and supernatural horror. Viewers find the pacing generally brisk, leading to an immersive experience. Nonetheless, several comments point to predictability and a lack of cohesive focus, which can cause confusion. Overall, the narrative is engaging yet uneven in its execution.

  • Sensory Experience 88

    Regarding sensory experience, the film excels in sound design and musical scoring, creating an unsettling atmosphere that complements the visual tone. Critics highlight the captivating audio mix and the striking VFX that enhance tension. The consistent auditory and visual cohesion reinforces thematic intent. Consequently, the sensory elements are among the most effective components of the production.

  • Rewatch Factor 75

    The rewatch factor is bolstered by the film’s strong visual style and relevant themes, prompting viewers to return for both entertainment and reflection. Positive audience feedback emphasizes enjoyment on subsequent viewings and the film’s suitability for group settings. Conversely, perceived narrative predictability may limit repeat interest for some. Overall, the movie offers solid replay value for viewers attuned to its atmospheric strengths.

Plot

Refuge Plot Summary

What happens in Refuge from start to finish, spoilers included, with a timeline of 12 key events. The opening is below; the full summary is a 2-minute read.

Spoilers ahead

Kate and Rick share a blissful and loving wedding, where they both express how safe they make one another feel. However, their perfect life is disrupted when Rick is deployed to Afghanistan as a military sergeant. During an intense battle, Rick finds himself isolated in a cave, where the walls are lined with mysterious arcane symbols that glow eerily. Suddenly, a shadowy figure appears behind him, startling Rick into a panic. Acting on instinct, he turns and fires his weapon, horrifyingly discovering that he has shot a Pashtun child, who now lies bleeding before him. In a surreal turn of events, the child’s body erupts into a cloud of sand, enveloping Rick.

Full summary

The whole story of Refuge, scene by scene

Read the full summary
Videos

Refuge Trailers & Videos

The trailer of Refuge.

Official Trailer
Quiz

How Well Do You Know Refuge?

10 questions about the story, each with a hint if you get stuck. Pick an answer to see whether you were right.

Question 1 of 10

  1. Question 1: not answered
  2. Question 2: not answered
  3. Question 3: not answered
  4. Question 4: not answered
  5. Question 5: not answered
  6. Question 6: not answered
  7. Question 7: not answered
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  9. Question 9: not answered
  10. Question 10: not answered

What country is Rick deployed to as a military sergeant?

Details

Refuge Also Known As

6 alternative titles, including “The Refuge” and “Убежище”.

Also known as
  • The Refuge
  • Убежище
  • Praeities šmėklos
  • רוחות מלחמה
  • 고스트 솔져
  • Úkryt

Seen Refuge?

FAQ

Refuge FAQ: Cast, Runtime & Release Date

Runtime, release date, director, cast, ratings, post-credit scenes and language of Refuge, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Refuge?

Refuge runs 1 hour 18 minutes (78 minutes).

When was Refuge released?

Refuge was released on March 24, 2023.

Who directed Refuge?

Refuge was directed by Din Blankenship and Erin Levin Bernhardt.

Who is in the cast of Refuge?

Refuge stars Chris Buckley, Andrea Cervone and C.J. Buckley, among 10 credited actors.

How is Refuge rated?

Refuge has 7.7/10 on IMDb.

Does Refuge have a post-credit scene?

No. Refuge has no extra scene during or after the credits.

What language is Refuge in?

The original language of Refuge is Kurdish.

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