Review of The Hottest State (2007) by Kyle E — 07 Oct 2007

I can see this film getting poor reviews, but it's honest, raw and damn well performed. Ethan Hawke sticks pretty closely to his novel, which isn't a bad thing considering the quality of is debut effort as a writer, employing his acute perception to directing with very good results.

I wasn't surprised to find that the film's pace comes straight out of the book, but what really impressed me was the performances that Hawke obtained from his actors, particulally Mark Webber, who really sells the movie, giving a performance that feels as raw as the film, its honest and he wears his heart on his sleeves and embodies the tone of the film.

Also worth note are some of the very small supporting roles, with Michelle Williams and Laura Linney giving extremely well-rounded performances in little screen time, but the very few scenes that Hawke himself acts in are the film's best.

I am very interested in seeing what Hawke follows this up with, but like this, I am positive it will be great.