Reviews

I can't say I was expecting a whole lot from this film. Given a freshman director and a cast headlined by Dillon and Fernandez combined with the view that Travolta and Dorff have headlined as many disappointments as they have decent films over the years, I expected little more.

The plot is as generic as the title and by itself almost cringe-worthy. It is the execution that is anything but, although some reviewers have called out the use of cliches. They seem to be missing how they are used to full effect here, tearing away the labels and challenging us to put them neatly back in place amidst the growing tension and conflict taking place. The result is immersion and character depth uncommon in films these days. Certain truths and motivations begin to take shape within each character on the way to their reckoning frequently putting the viewer's assumptions to the test.

The acting was excellent. Dorff blew me away as the ultra-violent and unconscionable mob enforcer and has matured into his full potential - the true standout in this film and his best role yet. Travolta's character as the backward and aloof sheriff lends heart and soul to the cliche and does so with the least amount of script. Then there's Dillon's praise-worthy supporting role as aging-white-trash-playing-gangsta, and Fernandez with an excellent lead performance as a hard-working and struggling young man who seems to believe honor exists even amongst thieves.

Ignore the generic title and don't limit yourself with the cliches - this movie will surprise you.

While the plot is sound and the subject worthwhile, the execution falls flat in nearly every aspect. Good actors can only do so much with a script that borders on juvenile - quite likely the worst script Michael Kaycheck has put his name on - it seems to be more of a Law and Order episode cowritten by Brooke Nasser and convoluted by the directorial overreach of Michael Oblowitz. All in all a terrible collaboration. As for the cast, great acting by all throughout, which is especially noteworthy given the aforementioned script and amateurish direction. Maybe Oblowitz should stick to short films and music videos if this is the best he can do given such a cast.