Dialogue creates interesting characterization in Hell or High Water

An overlooked film out currently, is Hell or High Water directed by David Mackenzie. The neo-western crime film stars veteran actor Jeff Bridges, as well as, Chris Pine and Ben Foster. With only a twelve million dollar budget, the movie was under marketed and made just over fifteen million dollars at the box office thus far.

Toby Howard, played by Chris Pine, who also stars in the Star Trek series, is a divorced father who robs banks with his ex-con brother Tanner, played by Ben Foster, who has gained recognition in the film 3:10 to Yuma. They do this to save their family’s Texas ranch from being foreclosed. Oil has been discovered on the ranch recently, so Toby knows this will provide for his family. They only have one thing that could stop them, Marcus Hamilton, a Texas ranger played by Jeff Bridges.

This film is David Mackenzie’s biggest yet, and also his best. Chris Pine, as well as Ben Foster are the best they’ve ever been, and lastly, Jeff Bridges, who is known for his role in the cult film The Big Lebowski, is also a standout performance in the movie. Taylor Sheridan wrote the movie, and he is an emerging screenwriter in Hollywood. Writing another acclaimed movie, Sicario, he is also set to write the sequel. He also made a cameo in the movie, and was in the hit show Sons of Anarchy.

Everything in this film works well. From the dialogue to the setting. From the characters to the story. For some viewers, the movie might move slow at some parts, but for most, including me, it was paced correctly. Many scenes are filled with witty dialogue instead of action like most movies currently are. Casual viewers might not like this, but those who like solid writing will enjoy it.

I would most certainly recommend this film to movie lovers, and those who enjoy good story and acting. Those who go to the movies for action and explosions would not enjoy this. There is good dialogue with a good story, and the tension built up keeps you interested. All in all, Hell or High Water is one of my personal favorites of the year thus far.