Pub.lished Movie Reviews
Lawless (2012)
"Lawless" (2012) transports you into the heart of Depression-era Franklin County, Virginia, offering an immersive tale of survival, family, and resistance against authority. The narrative revolves around a formidable trio of bootlegging brothers, whose lucrative business is under threat by new law enforcement officials, notably a special deputy, seeking a slice of their profits.
This movie's setting is so vividly portrayed that you can almost taste the dust of the Virginia backroads. The authenticity of the period is also enhanced by the film's impeccable attention to detail, from the vernacular of the era to the subtle nuances of the bootlegging trade.
What makes "Lawless" truly gripping is that it's based on a true story. While certain details and characters have been fictionalized for the sake of dramatic effect, the core narrative remains faithful to the real-life events it is inspired by. This blend of fact and fiction imbues the film with a distinct sense of realism, making the brothers' exploits all the more captivating.
The performances are stellar across the board, with each actor fully embodying their character, adding yet another layer of authenticity to this riveting drama. The atmospheric cinematography, combined with a gritty narrative, creates a gripping and immersive experience for the viewer.
"Lawless" is more than just a period drama; it's a riveting exploration of brotherhood, defiance, and survival during one of the most tumultuous periods in American history. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, a testament to its powerful storytelling and compelling performances. The movie is a testament to the power of human resilience in the face of adversity.
The manner in which "Lawless" tells its story strikes a balance between historical accuracy and dramatic interpretation, which is a testament to the skill of the filmmakers. The result is a film that is both an engaging drama and a compelling peek into a fascinating slice of American history. It's a potent mix, and one that leaves a lasting impression.
- You are uncomfortable with graphic violence and gore.
- You have a low tolerance for strong language.
- Depictions of alcohol abuse are disturbing to you.
- You are looking for a light-hearted, feel-good movie.
- You are under the age of 17. The movie is rated R.
Warning: The following may contain spoilers:
What's the deal with "Lawless?"It's a movie about prohibition-era bootleggers who are breaking the law every which way and yet, they're the most law-abiding citizens in the whole county!
I mean, you've got corrupt cops, violent mobsters, and politicians on the take, and our heroes are the guys making moonshine in the woods! If that doesn't make you question your moral compass, I don't know what will!
Public Enemies (2009):
If you enjoyed "Lawless" for its portrayal of infamous criminals during the Prohibition era, "Public Enemies" could be right up your alley. Johnny Depp delivers a captivating performance as the notorious bank robber, John Dillinger. In addition, the film is under the direction of Michael Mann, who is known for his gritty and realistic crime dramas like "Heat" and "Collateral". "Public Enemies" delivers a blend of action, drama, and historical context that you might find interesting.
Peaky Blinders (TV series, 2013-present):While not a movie, this television series might align well with your interest in "Lawless". "Peaky Blinders" is a stylish period drama about a family-run gang in Birmingham, plotted against the backdrop of post-WWI England. This series, similar to "Lawless," explores themes of family, power struggles, and criminal activity within a specific historical context, all brought to life through memorable performances by Cillian Murphy and Tom Hardy.
Bonnie and Clyde (1967):You may enjoy this classic crime film. The disturbing tale of Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, infamous criminals of the Great Depression era, is depicted in a sobering yet captivating fashion. Directed by Arthur Penn, it's regarded as one of the landmark films of the New Hollywood Era for it's portrayal of sex and violence, which was groundbreaking for the period. Its stylistic influence is still felt in crime cinema till today.
American Gangster (2007):"American Gangster" reels you in with the fascinating true story of Harlem drug lord Frank Lucas and his rise in the 1970s. Denzel Washington delivers a powerful performance in the lead role, complemented by Russell Crowe's portrayal of the cop out to bring Lucas down. If you appreciated the exploration of criminal enterprise in "Lawless," you should find this Ridley Scott-directed film intriguing.
Road to Perdition (2002):Director Sam Mendes presents another entrancing period drama here. "Road to Perdition" is set during the Great Depression and explores themes of father-son relationships, loyalty and revenge. Tom Hanks and Paul Newman deliver gripping performances while Conrad L. Hall’s film-noir inspired cinematography provides a compelling visual narrative. If you love crime-drama movies set in different eras like "Lawless," this movie should be a treat.
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