Review of Blood Father (2016) by Camille L — 07 Sep 2016

It isn't really common that I want to see a grimy '80s-esque B-movie, so it was pretty good timing that this want reappeared when Blood Father was in theaters. It's not like I grew up on these types of movies so I don't have a strong connection to stuff like this, but this makes for a pleasant surprise nonetheless.

It isn't original, but it's well executed with strong performances, a sense of humor, a bit of heart, and badassery. John Lick (Mel Gibson) is an ex-convict and ex-alcoholic living in rural California, whose daughter Lydia (Erin Moriarty) has been missing for years.

When she shows up, she brings about the trouble that she's gotten into involving her boyfriend and his drug gang. They're after her, leaving John to protect her and himself, and shenanigans involving shotguns, motorcycles, and gang fights ensue.

As said before, this isn't that original of a concept. It isn't that original thematically or in terms of story, but that doesn't really matter when it's well done. The movie actually has a pretty good script that helps anchor the father/daughter relationship between the two main characters with their interplay and history, both of which feel authentic.

The script has a sense of humor about itself, therefore avoiding unintentional comedy that could have easily come about. Jean-Francois Richet's direction is brisk and effective with the action scenes being well edited, and the movie maintains its testosterone-driven edge without feeling needlessly dirty.

A lot comes together quite nicely here, and the performances really do help. I just see Mel Gibson as the horrible antisemitic and misogynistic guy that he is, but if you can separate the art from the artist, you have to admit that he makes for a sympathetic, engaging, and badass lead.

Moriarty's work as Gibson's daughter is very good, being strong but flawed and thoroughly a pleasure to watch. She has a great presence, and the two of them have very good chemistry. The flaws with Blood Father aren't pervasive, but they are noticeable and generally have to do with editing.

Despite the fact that, as mentioned earlier, the action sequences are well edited and avoid excessive cuts, the slower scenes ironically enough have too many cuts at times. Some of the transitions from location to location are a little jarring sometimes and the movie drags a bit towards the end, namely as it goes from act two to act three.

There are also some shaky handheld camera shots when they aren't called for (read: during dormant conversations). I also have to note that, again, this movie isn't that original and it isn't like it'll change your life, but again, it's well done for what it is.

Blood Father is one of the more pleasant surprises of the year so far, being fully watchable and a good amount of fun. It doesn't take itself too seriously but still keeps the drama serious enough as to not undercut the stakes at hand, and the performances are very good.

I'd be happy with more small action movies like this in the future, since this one is well done behind and in front of the camera. 7.9/10, solid, one thumb up, above average, etc.