Movie review: Standoff

Fleeing from vicious killer Sade, 12-yr old Bird takes refuge in a farmhouse in which suicidal vet Carter is living. With only a single bird-shot shell left for his shotgun, Carter must use all his resources to save himself and Bird.

Thomas Jane (Carter), Laurence Fishburne (Sade), Ella Ballentine (Bird), Jim Watson (Officer Baker), Joanna Douglas (Mara), Laura de Carteret (Woman), John Tench (Roger), Ted Atherton (Priest).

Standoff begins with some mild backstory and character introductions before Bird witnesses an assassination by Sade. Fleeing to the nearest farmhouse, she takes cover with suicidal vet Carter. The remainder of the film is a story of psychological warfare as Carter, with only one shotgun shell left, tries to defend against well armed Sade. The film finishes as expected with the drama concluded, emotional issues resolved, and everyone out of bullets.

Acting was mediocre here. Jane delivered his usual stoic and unemotional performance, which fit the role fairly well. Fishburne was enjoyable with a solid performance and good energy. Ballentine put forth a good performance with nice emotion and delivery. The remainder of the cast was solid.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were pretty good with most of the film taking place inside a farmhouse. Action scenes were nicely done with a gritty, realistic feel. Dialogue was decent, adding most of the plot depth. Sound and soundtrack were mild but good.

Standoff ends up being a decent action thriller with as much psychological action as physical. The story moves along at a decent pace and builds suspense pretty well. This one is pretty standard for the genre, but fairly well done at the same time.

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

Released: 2015
Reviewed: 8.9.16
Star rating: 3 out of 5
Genre: Action Thriller, Action & Adventure, Crime Action & Adventure, Suspense

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