driver8207003

Well, I think critics are being a little rough handed with my favorite NJ film maker. I loved this movie. Horror satire that presents architypes of three pretty prominent issues can very easily get tired, for they've been presented over and over. Simply the fact that I remained connected to the screen, in awe of Michael Parks stunning and completely unnerviing performance, laughed at the traditional sharp Smith dialogue, and shook my head because even under the guise of satire, one still can't help but think that it's only maybe the slightest exaggeration in this day and age, made me come to conclude that this was a shining example of Smith's multiple talents as writer, director, filmmaker.

For all of the pro criticism that this film plays like a lifetime movie, the fact **** facts........ the movie intentionally goes for the simple truths, rather than enhancing it hollywood style to get sentimental. It's a thoroughly enjoyable movie, especially by the superlative cast. While Hillary Swank does her usual great work, Sam Rockwell is stellar as the hometown thug/goofball who turns into a beaten man. And Melissa Leo as the police officer who does him in is so startling real, I loved and detested her. Go see this movie for a grade A production of a decent script.