Hell or High Water

The first time I watched this, I turned it off at about the 5-minute mark. I thought it was another dumb movie about inept country-bumpkins, which would rely on a mixture of slapstick and overly-done sappy and violent scenes in order to create enough of a pull to keep at least some audience members somewhat entertained. How wrong I was. I finally sat down and watched it with friends who insisted it was not what it appeared to be within the first few minutes of the film. Without giving too much away, and having to use a spoiler tag, Hell or High Water is a story about two brothers who after the death of their mother, organize a series of (justified?) bank robberies. What ensues is a catch-me-if-you-can scenario with the pursuing "law" hell-bent on catching them, and them hell-bent on not being caught. In short, it is a typical story of cops and robbers (or so you would think), with an atypical, uncommon and unconventional narrative. Given the plot, the remote setting and the almost nostalgic atmosphere and ambiance of the film, it is honestly a miracle, and more than a pleasant surprise, just how very gratifying and outstanding this film actually is. A definite must-watch.

A modern western of quality, when I say modern, I mean it's a Western thing that happens in 20I6, yes, that's possible and "At any cost" is proof of that, a film with a smell and flavor of the western, with action , Duels, weapons, hats and Texas, but also with feeling. The film tells the story of Toby (Chris Pine) and Tanner (Ben Foster), two bandits who make assaults on bank boxes and their executioners, the film works on this quest for cat and mouse of the two nuclei . The film tries to pass a moral about not being villains or good guys, in the western, these concepts does not exist, there is only who draws the gun first, the film is great at doing this, even if it happens in the current times, we also have brushstrokes about seeing all Points of view and a criticism of the abandonment of the cities of the interior that are still sunk in the economic crisis of 2008. The photography is great, full of aerial plans, with a palette of colors that pulls red, the climate is hot, photography Is urban and at the same time gives a complete sense of solitude, with a spectacular soundtrack, full of country, you want to pack and move to Texas, the track gives the tone of the movie several times, can even play once or Another at wrong times, but it is always a treat anyway. Chris Pine does a good performance, nothing special, he fulfills his role, Ben Foster is well out of tune, his performance is bad and it is not the movie, the gold here is Jeff Bridges, who Acts more physically with his face, full of postures, while sitting, walking, looking, he is a legitimate cowboy, does not deserve the Oscar, but deserved the indication. And a compliment to David Mackenzie who knows how to record moving scenes like no one else. Finally "At any cost" is a good movie, for the lovers of the western has a much more special taste.

This is a movie worth seeing for many reasons. 1. Jeff Bridge - The role fits his style perfectly. His dialogue is spot on and just a joy to watch and listen to. 2. Chris Pine - This movies helps shed Capt. Kirk big time. I didn't think he was much of an actor before this but I have a new found appreciating. 3. Ben Foster - His usual strong, a bit crazy, witty dialogue, edgy performance. So much fun to watch! 4. West Texas - I have to defer to those that know West Texas but if this is how the people are like out there with their guns, hometown values and dialogue, I love it! 5. Perfect Crime? - I don't want to spoil it but please keep in mind the bank dynamics. 6. Supporting Cast - Again, I don't want to spoil it but whoever did the casting did a fantastic job, assuming this is what West Texas is like. (see #4. above). It's not perfect since there are a few slow moments but there are other interesting nuances that will remind you of twists in other movies. It's so hard to write this accurately and completely and not make reference to spoilers. Suffice to say that you should see this movie for any of the reasons above. Enjoy.