Tom Hardy & Shia LaBeouf bring the heat in this modern day classic set in the prohibition era. The film about Franklin County, Virginia, three brothers form a bootlegging gang, their operation is threatened when by a new deputy and other authorities who want a cut of their profits. Director John Hillcoat gives us a feel for the 30’s that other recent forays into this era have failed to capture the essence of properly. It’s small things like the opening scene of killing the pig, that sets the tone saying to the audience “THIS IS OUR WORLD.”
Tom Hardy’s turn as Forest Bondurant voice midway through can remind you at times of Bane from the Dark Knight to be honest. That doesn’t detract from his presence of his “strong silent” type demeanor of a character. There was certain events int he movie he did that made me think “I need some brass knuckles!” And Shia, Shia, SHIA never phoning a performance in he clearly is able to carry a movie with his baby face, and depth he plays the baby brother of Forest, as Jack Bondurant. In this coming of age film Shia’s character searches to find his place in his family amongst two crazy ass brothers who are notoriously known for being “immortal & unkillable.”
A big treat of the film and one of the main reasons it works, is the supporting cast is so strong. From The lovable Criket played by the next in line star (Dane DeHaan), to the biggest douche I’ve seen in a movie in a long time. I literally walked out of the theater despising this man Charlie Rakes played by frequent collaborator with director John Hillcoat (Guy Pearce). I hated the pompous part in his hair, I think it’s little details that sell the movie, and give you something to discus when you walk out of the theater. Also Gary Oldman was onscreen for no longer than 10 minutes, but you definitely remember his pivotal role in the movie as gangster Floyd Banner.
If you’re looking for a solid film in a summer filled with so many duds you thought they were covered in chocolate and served in a box at the concession stands. Lawless IS that film to end the summer off on a befitting way.
