Friday, September 8, 2017

Movie review: Hell or High Water

 
 Realizing they are about to lose the family farm to foreclosure, brothers Toby and Tanner decide robbing the very banks that hold their mortgage is the solution. But a relentless lawman preparing for retirement could be the fly in their ointment.

Chris Pine (Toby), Ben Foster (Tanner), Jeff Bridges (Marcus), Gil Birmingham (Alberto), Dale Dickey (Elise), William Sterchi (Mr. Clauson), Kristin Berg (Olney Teller), Katy Mixon (Jenny),  Joe Berryman (Bank Manager).

Hell or High Water begins nicely, rolling right into the storyline. As characters are introduced, and we begin to understand the plot, the energy grows slightly and the film finds a good pace. The plot feels good, though there is a fairly big plot hole toward the end that doesn't seem to fit with the characters. The story then presents a feel good, but also feels contrived, ending that is a little disappointing and quite sad.

Acting was enjoyable with Pine and Foster each delivering well, and working together nicely. Bridges was a surprising, but welcome addition and stole the show with his delivery. Birmingham, Sterchi, and the remainder of the supporting cast were solid and enjoyable throughout.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds are solid and fit the film well. Natural scenery was used well. Dialogue was pretty good with decent depth. Sound could have been a bit better, soundtrack was mild.

Billed as a crime action film, this one feels a lot more like a desperation story or a cowboy drama. Those who enjoy mild action, cowboys, or gritty drama should enjoy this one. Those hoping for intense action may be somewhat disappointed.

With some sexuality, violence, gore, and foul language save this one for older teens and above.

Released: 2016
Reviewed: 8.16.17
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Crime Action, Action & Adventure, Heist films, Crime Drama, Thriller

copyright ©2017 Dave Riedel

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