Dan Wachspress doesn't need a big budget to craft a fine film about the human experience

With a lot of charm and scrappy humor, "One Take" is about the irreversible moments in one's life - when an offhand decision can have tragic consequences - and the healing powers of an extended family during trying times.

The feature debut of writer-director-editor Dan Wachspress, "One Take" was well-received at the recent USA Film Festival. A native of Schenectady, N.Y., and a Columbia University alum, Wachspress brings out the best in his cast of newcomers.

Kevin (Jamison Selby) learns one day that his ex-girlfriend Jessie (Jessica Queller) has died, but weeks later he receives a letter in the mail with a message from her. Plagued by doubts and having imaginary conversations with Jessie's ghost, Kevin goes searching for the person who mailed the letter.

He visits Jessie's family, who know nothing of the mystery, and he agrees to take her depressed younger brother Jerry (Karl Giant) on the next leg of his journey. One of those peppy personalities who doesn't go for the silent treatment, Kevin tries to cheer up angry and withdrawn Jerry in engaging scenes that showcase the talents of both performers.

Through a series of flashbacks, we learn that Kevin particularly regrets a vigorous hike in the Adirondacks when Jessie's appendix burst and she had to be rushed to the emergency room.

A big surprise awaits Kevin at the end of his journey, and he imagines different versions of the crucial moments that have led to a delayed tragedy.

Another screwy misfit on Kevin's agenda is tortured mystic Jon (Kevin Orton), who anticipates Kevin's despair when he learns the truth - there's only "one take" in real life.

In an understated way, the character-driven film explores several areas of human experience - love, loss, depression, guilt - with winning performances, lively dialogue and inspired locations. The remarkable climactic scene with Kevin and Jon, set on a mountaintop, is a nice payoff.

-- David Hunter in Dallas