Review of Hell or High Water (2016) by Junelkean — 21 Jan 2018

In "Hell or High Water," Chris Pine and Ben Foster play brothers who embark on a fearless bank robbing binge to raise money after the death of their mother. But in spite of their audacious tactics and unforgivable acts, the audience stays engaged in their story. Why? What makes an anti-hero compelling? This film answers these questions, while being both a pathetic character study and one of the best movies of 2016.

Well, hats off to writer Taylor Sheridan - Hell or High Water is rich with characters, all of whom are motivated, clever and unforgettable. Jeff Bridges, Pine and Foster are firing on all cylinders here with Oscar-worthy performances. The magnetic on-screen presence and believable dynamic among these characters are carried all throughout the film.

Director David MacKenzie's bleak presentation of Texas flawlessly captures the neo-Western spirit and sustains the setting as exhilarating as ever. But despite of its cat-and-mouse premise and thrilling action sequences, it's still a funny film - every line out of Bridges' mouth is pure gold and unforgettable fun.

Perhaps most importantly, the complex nature of our memorable characters are powerfully-detailed. Sometimes, you are rooting for the brothers. Sometimes, you are rooting for the rangers. But moreover, the film also explores social issues like financial crises and economic rural decline.

VERDICT: In a world full of rotten summer blockbusters, Hell or High Water reminds us on why we love movies. And it's a remarkable testament that the Western genre is still alive and kicking.