Victor Nunez's film 'Ulee's Gold' is a highly understated thriller centred on a beekeeper troubled by his son's criminal past, whose strengths lie in the absence of violent melodrama. Indeed, if anything, the quiet-spokenness of its characters (even the villains) leaves it open to the charge of romanticising American small-town life; but Ullee's own exceptional reticence is as much a private prison as a sign of strength and decency, and Peter Fonda, in the lead role, brings out both aspects nicely in his performance. Although you'll see more exciting and ambitious movies, the absence of false notes ensure this subtle drama leaves it own mark.
Review of Ulee's Gold
