Review of Shotgun Stories (2007) by David M — 01 Mar 2012

A quiet tale of family in revenge set in the deep south, by the duo that would go on to make the brilliant Take Shelter. An impressive debut by Jeff Nichols which is only made all the more impressive knowing what his next feat would be.

This very subtle and meditative drama shows to sets of brothers both linked by the same father. One set knew him as a drunk and verbally abusive, the other as a good man. They have words at the funeral.

Feelings are hurt. That turns into violence. Then blood is shed. The amazing thing is that almost none of the violence is shown. The film finds a home in studying the fallout and effect of violence. Of abuse and family discord.

There are moments of humor and humanity, and starkly drawn characters. The confidence to know that you're doing that so well that you can rob the violence-hungry american audience of their fill and still believe you can keep them interested is a real testament to the power of the film and the deft filmmaking.