Writer-director Seth Grossman weaves a tale of an older brother (Jake) getting deeper and deeper into the booze and drugs of Chiang Mai, Thailand, while running away from his troubles back in the states.

When Jake’s younger brother, Oliver, comes to visit with the intention of trying to get his brother to come home with him, he soon finds himself following in his brother’s footsteps. Things get crazy when Oliver falls for a local girl and hasn’t gotten anywhere trying to convince Jake to come home and face his legal troubles.

The film is shot and directed well. It shows what can happen to ex-pats that find themselves seduced by the underbelly of a third world country.

Grade: B

The Elephant King releases in select theaters Oct. 24.