Director David Mackenzie
Genre Crime | Drama
Cast Chris Pine, Ben Foster, Jeff Bridges, Katy Mixon
Rating R
Release Date August 12th, 2016
“A divorced dad and his ex-con brother resort to a desperate scheme in order to save their family’s farm in West Texas.”
Hell or High Water is directed by David Mackenzie, his next project after directing 2013’s sleeper hit, Starred Up. The film is written by Taylor Sheridan who also wrote 2015’s cartel drama Sicario, his very first writing credit. As an actor just now transitioning into writing, fans of the FX series Sons of Anarchy would recognize him as Deputy Chief, David Hale. The crime drama has a very impressive cast including Chris Pine, Ben Foster, and Jeff Bridges.
Hell or High Water, a gritty heist drama set in West Texas, will leave a lasting impression and is easily one of the best films of 2016. It combines beautiful cinematography, incredible acting, and a uniquely engaging story. The film’s script serves as a character study of sorts, providing audiences an in-depth view of both sides of the law. The chemistry between Chris Pine and Ben Foster quickly develops into a bond only brothers could share, leaving little doubt as far as what they are willing to do for each other. The West Texas setting is absolutely picturesque considering the premise and overall message of the film. Director David Mackenzie and writer Taylor Sheridan (Sicario) click on another level and truly bring the story to life. I also really enjoyed the attention to detail shown by Mackenzie, with an accurate and often times very bleak portrayal of West Texas and its economic issues.
With Hell or High Water it's difficult to narrow down the greatest strength of the film, but acting is undoubtedly near the top of that list. The cast is absolutely incredible and I can't picture anyone else doing a better job. Ben Foster is a very talented actor but is easily the least known out of the leads in the film. He built a reputation as a loose cannon starting with Alpha Dog, right on through 3:10 to Yuma where he starred alongside Russel Crowe, and The Mechanic where he tussled with Jason Statham. Ain't Them Bodies Saints was an under the radar gem of his that truly showcased his skills. Foster is a fantastic actor and understands how to develop a character. The other two lead actors need no introduction, Chris Pine and Jeff Bridges. Pine and Bridges find themselves on opposite sides of the law but the two actors provide the perfect balance and undoubtedly bring out the best in each other.
Hell or High Water is one heck of an experience and should not be missed. I can’t wait to see it a second time so that I can really appreciate some of the smaller details I may have missed. Rarely does a film effectively deliver all aspects of great filmmaking, but when they do, the end result is something special. Audiences may be relatively in the dark as of right now when it comes to this little known gem, but come award season, Hell or High Water will be on everyone's radar. Highly recommended.
