Hell or High Water Movie Review

The summer of 2016 was a bummer when it came to the blockbusters. Don't get me wrong, I had fun with films like Captain America: Civil War, Suicide Squad, Warcraft; but for one reason or another I was still feeling bummed by the stories that were told. The stories were weak, antagonists were lame, characters were one-note...the list goes on. This summer burned me on brand names quite a bit. So, to be entering the fall season with some Oscar-caliber films making their debut was exactly the right kind of fresh air I needed. And boy, did the season start off right with Hell or High Water.

Featuring two poor-as-dirt brothers portrayed by Chris Pine and Ben Foster, Hell or High Water tells the story of these two brothers and their attempts to rob small-time banks in order to save their recently deceased mothers' ranch. Out to stop them is Jeff Bridges' aging Texas ranger, a man determined to go out on a high note before he's forced out of the service. In just over 90 minutes, the exploits of these three men are a compilation of compelling character story, intense robbery sequences, and a subtle-yet-not-so commentary on the banking system of the United States amidst gorgeous yet depressing mid-Texan scenery.

The contrast of color within the film feels very western-esque: bright, warm colors wash over the flatlands farms, and low-income areas in which Pine and Foster travel across. As the gorgeous cinematography pans over the land, the highways, and the very real dystopia of these characters, there's a certain beauty to the simplicity of the setting, which is honestly all resting on the shoulders of the coloring of the shot. It's hauntingly gorgeous, not only because of the color, but because of where it is.

Thematically, the film is actually no more relevant than today. The narrative centers around the two characters of Pine and Foster trying to save their farm after the 2008 housing crisis, and after being abandoned by several employment opportunities, the government included. But the beautiful thing about the narrative is that it never extends beyond that simple fact. There's really no other political agenda than to present the situation as it is. It's blunt, it's honest, it's unapologetic. And I love this movie for it.

As for the acting, our four main players absolutely nail it. Chris Pine brings a really true, reserved character to life amidst the waste that is his life. Jeff Bridges does the typical southern accent he's becoming known for, and plays the 'aging guardian' role with real levity, a role that's much needed in this film. Finally, Ben Foster as the older of the two thieving brothers steals the show with his showmanship and deliverance of lines. This trio was immaculate in their performances.

I can't recommend Hell or High Water enough. It was my wish to see this film win Best Picture at the Academy Awards this past year, but now my only wish is that people consider giving it a chance. It's really a can't-miss film.

Rating: 10/10

*Note that a 10/10 rating from me does not mean a film is flawless; rather, it means that it's a masterpiece and should not be missed.