Review of Wind River (2017) by Ralph K — 20 May 2018

Strengths: This is a great, engaging mystery. As soon as the body is found, you're left wanting to know more about what happened. It's very well-written, too. There are so many scenes that just work. Watching Jeremy Renner (Cory Lambert) and Elizabeth Olsen (Jane Banner) discuss the death of Cory's daughter was heartbreaking and probably the best scene of the film. The chemistry between the actors works, just like their great small scenes in Age of Ultron and Civil War. I also appreciated how they didn't go the romantic route with them. It would've been an unnecessary addition. When we get to see exactly what happened to the deceased girl, Natalie Hanson (Kelsey Asbille) and Matt Rayburn (Jon Bernthal), it's chilling and hard to watch. The standoff between the police and the drilling workers is another thrilling highlight, as is Cory's arrival to make the save. The way the rapist is dealt with is also very satisfying and perfectly fitting with Cory's character. Also, having the film take place mostly in snow gave it a really cool look and feel. For a near two hour film, it flies by.

Weaknesses: Some of the characters, especially law enforcement, and including Olsen's character, do dumb things. For example, the FBI agent literally stands in harm's way like an idiot to set up the big confrontation near the end. It just felt off. In fact, Olsen's character is kind of weak despite being a federal agent. I can see how some viewers will be put off by the graphic rape scene. It's mentioned multiple times early on and the implication could've been enough during the flashback. Lastly, some of the stuff feels predictable and not as big a mystery as one would hope.

Overall: Another great film in a loaded 2017. Jeremy Renner and Elizabeth Olsen were great together, nailing each scene they got to work on. The mystery unravels quite nicely, though is a bit predictable. Regardless, it's a well-acted, well-directed, well-written movie that will keep you engaged for its entire runtime and give you a mostly satisfying conclusion.