Review of Galveston (2018) by Kenr — 24 Jan 2020

Everyone in this grotty movie is unlikeable, and it remains that way right up till the last few minutes, where we get a shock to be introduced to a soul to actually feel for. Bleak can be good in screen drama but when there is little or no relief, it can drain viewer interest.

It’s likely to have some wanting to leave these somewhat moronic characters to those who enjoy putting up with grungy situations - filled with characters driven by self-absorption and violence. Much of the slowly paced action is played out in semi-darkness making it all feel twice as long.

This is new age story-telling that’s likely to leave many viewers wanting more clarity to make investing an hour and a half worthwhile. An atmospheric score eventually goes nowhere and the dismal story of a hit-man on the run soon wears thin.

Performances are OK, but mostly wasted as there’s little to hang them on – and, an overly ‘arty’ ending doesn’t help. As for finding enjoyment, some will, but I fear many more won’t.