Review of Sling Blade (1996) by Stephen E — 04 Oct 2011

Sling Blade is a fine slice of American cinema. It is inspirational, heart-warming, and, at times, saddening. As far as "feel good" pictures go, I think that Sling Blade just about takes home the gold.

First things first, I am astounded by the brilliance of Mr. Thornton. I never suspected this from him. What a miraculous achievement to be writer, director, and leading actor in such a film! To come up with everything on his own, to be put under such pressure, and to end up with something like this; something that is better than most everything else that comes out, and most of those people pour their heart and soul into it. Here is a man of striking ingenuity and I applaud him for it.

As for the character of Karl Childers, not a more original and hope-inspiring character can be found. Thornton has captured all of the mannerisms of his character right down to the smallest details. It is such a fantastic performance. In fact, I'd like to know who beat Thornton at the Academy Awards for the Best Actor Oscar. Shame on them!