Earl, an 80-year-old Korean War veteran turned horticulturist, takes a driving job in hopes of fixing his financial situation and saving his home. What Earl doesn't realize is that he has signed on as a drug courier for a Mexican cartel.
Clint Eastwood (Earl), Cesar De Leon (Jose), Jackie Prucha (Helen), Richard Herd (Tim), Alison Eastwood (Iris), Dianne Wiest (Mary), Taissa Farmiga (Ginny), Laurence Fishburne (SAC), Bradley Cooper (Agent Bates), Michael Pena (Agent Trevino).
The Mule begins well enough with some brief backstory and character introductions. As Earl begins his new job, things get more interesting though it is hard to believe he doesn't immediately realize who he is working for. As the story evolves and Earl excels at his delivery job, law enforcement takes notice and once again, it is hard to believe he isn't quickly caught. Eastwood throws in a wad of family drama, of course, which gives the story a bit more depth and pace through the lackluster ending.
Acting was decent with Eastwood doing reasonably well. Leon delivered well and fit his role. Fishburne, Cooper, and Pena added some experience to the film and all delivered well. Alison Eastwood, Wiest, Farmiga and the remainder of the supporting cast were decent.
Camera work, sets, and backgrounds are good with a solid, realistic feel. Action is mild but fitting. Dialogue is good with nice depth. Sound and soundtrack are enjoyable.
While The Mule is interesting, it is much less entertaining. Eastwood takes his time telling a story and this one is no different with a slower plot and low energy level. Those who enjoy the drama more than the crime or storyline in general should enjoy this one. Those hoping for energy, action, or intensity will likely be disappointed.
With some nudity, sexuality, mild violence and foul language, this should be fine for older teens and above.
Released: 2018
Reviewed: 6.24.19
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Drama, Crime, Thriller, Crime Drama
copyright ©2019 Dave Riedel
Clint Eastwood (Earl), Cesar De Leon (Jose), Jackie Prucha (Helen), Richard Herd (Tim), Alison Eastwood (Iris), Dianne Wiest (Mary), Taissa Farmiga (Ginny), Laurence Fishburne (SAC), Bradley Cooper (Agent Bates), Michael Pena (Agent Trevino).
The Mule begins well enough with some brief backstory and character introductions. As Earl begins his new job, things get more interesting though it is hard to believe he doesn't immediately realize who he is working for. As the story evolves and Earl excels at his delivery job, law enforcement takes notice and once again, it is hard to believe he isn't quickly caught. Eastwood throws in a wad of family drama, of course, which gives the story a bit more depth and pace through the lackluster ending.
Acting was decent with Eastwood doing reasonably well. Leon delivered well and fit his role. Fishburne, Cooper, and Pena added some experience to the film and all delivered well. Alison Eastwood, Wiest, Farmiga and the remainder of the supporting cast were decent.
Camera work, sets, and backgrounds are good with a solid, realistic feel. Action is mild but fitting. Dialogue is good with nice depth. Sound and soundtrack are enjoyable.
While The Mule is interesting, it is much less entertaining. Eastwood takes his time telling a story and this one is no different with a slower plot and low energy level. Those who enjoy the drama more than the crime or storyline in general should enjoy this one. Those hoping for energy, action, or intensity will likely be disappointed.
With some nudity, sexuality, mild violence and foul language, this should be fine for older teens and above.
Released: 2018
Reviewed: 6.24.19
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Drama, Crime, Thriller, Crime Drama
copyright ©2019 Dave Riedel
