Monday, May 2, 2011

RED, WHITE & BLUE (2010)



Written & Directed By: Simon Rumley
Cinematography By: Milton Kam
Editor: Robert Hall

Cast: Noah Taylor, Amanda Fuller, Marc Senter



None of the characters in this film are people you would probably want to spend anytime with. They are human though.

I have mixed feelings about this film on the one hand there is a good story here the way it is presented is more to fit into a conventional tale although it is a dark one. On the other hand the film feels like it chooses to revel in some kind of exploitive revenge tale. the film is well made in a low-budget gritty way. the frst half of the film plays off like a weird offbeat dark drama. That has plenty of sex and slowly resembles a story that let's you get to know the characters while still leaving alot to wonder about them.

The second half of the film starts off with a surprise, that you can probably guess. it basically surprises the audience and let's you see the drama of a previously minor character. How there world is destoryed and they react in a destructive manner and after they havemade that decision there is no going back as his actions set forth a reaction that he never saw coming that also allows us to see a character finally unleash there dark side.

The problem with this film is that while at times it can be really good and original. IT is filled with tension and horrifying scenes of violence. at times it squanders it's opputunity tobe something different by making trips into exploitation and torture porn that really aren't needed to make their point. Now while it is shocking at times it plays off as cheap.

The film has it's merits but is not easy to sit through. It seems to revel i it's own filth. To me the film only has one scene that goes over the line involving the family.

I was happy to see Noah taylor inthis film he is a character actor who i have always been a fan of ever since first seeing him in the film FLIRTING. here he is scary as he transforms from his usal nice guy demenaor to totally scary deranged Charlie Mansonlooking southerner who is the film's so called hero.

Amanda fuller also gives a good performance that starts off un-emotional but that is to hide the pain she is feeling. Whichhauntsher even in her day to day actions. Her willingness to show herself so vulnerable and naked physically and emotionally. i wish it could have been for a better film. the film is noteworthy though. Enough to get a mild recommendation.

GRADE: C+

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