Mother Lode (1982 film)

Mother Lode is a 1982 British-Canadian thriller film directed by Charlton Heston, who also stars in the dual role of Silas McGee and Jean McGee. The film's screenplay was written by Fraser Clarke Heston and is based on an original story.

The plot centers around two partners, Andrea and George, who embark on a search in the Canadian wilderness for Jean McGee, a recluse prospector who hasn't been heard from in years. Their search leads them to a remote, isolated gold mine where they encounter Silas McGee, Jean's twin brother. Silas is a controlling and paranoid figure who maintains a bizarre, almost feudal dominance over a small group of workers.

As Andrea and George investigate further, they uncover dark secrets about the McGee family and the true fate of Jean. The film explores themes of greed, madness, isolation, and the corrupting influence of power.

Mother Lode received generally negative reviews upon its release, with criticism directed towards its pacing, writing, and Heston's performance in the dual roles. However, some viewers have found merit in the film's depiction of the harsh wilderness and its exploration of psychological themes.