Review of Brawl in Cell Block 99 (2017) by Filipe C — 02 Oct 2017

To define S. Craigh Zahler's throwback film as "exploitation" is to disregard its emotional truth. Brawl in Cell Block 99 is tough to watch, often times offering look-away-now graphic violence, but it never settles with being sensationalist or controversial (as the definition requires).

There's a purpose to the gut punch, and it's driven by a moral compass and an expertly told narrative. By keeping impressive restraint and skillfully sustaining mood, Zahler raises questions about the ability to escape a world that defines us, while trying to find humanity in a climate of terror.

The face of this descent into hell is that of Vince Vaughn's. In an unconventionally meaty role, Vaughn pulls a compelling and, at times, touching performance. Brawl is the type of American cinema that isn't being made anymore, one that the industry so desperately needs.