Small Town Crime

"Small Town Crime" is a thrilling movie experience that hit the theatres in 2017 and is full of twists and turns that keep viewers at the edges of their seats right through the film. This film splendidly combines elements of crime, drama, mystery and humor that make for an engaging and unforgettable watch. Directed by Ian Nelms and Eshom Nelms, the film boasts an impressive cast list with the likes of John Hawkes, Anthony Anderson, and Octavia Spencer delivering standout performances.

The story primarily revolves around the central character Mike Kendall, excellently played by John Hawkes, a disgraced ex-police officer with a drinking problem that is unable to remove the stain of his past mistakes. He is a flawed but likable character with deep-seated regrets and an unflagging desire for redemption. The chance of redemption presents itself when Mike stumbles upon a left-for-dead woman on the side of a desolate road. This sets up the premise for the movie, slowly drawing the audience into a web of crime, mystery, and redemption.

What follows is Mike's desperate attempt to find out the woman’s murderer, setting him on a path that parallels the lifestyle and detective work from his police days. Even though he lacks the authority and resources of a policeman, Mike uses his skills and intuitive intelligence to follow the clues that could lead him to the killer. His journey of truth-seeking is far from smooth as he gets dragged into a shady world of deceit, corruption, and danger.

John Hawkes does a wonderful job in the role of Mike Kendall. His portrayal effectively captures the unyielding spirit of a man yearning for a shot at redemption and providing justice to an innocent victim, yet is often thwarted by his personal struggles and entrenched demons. Hawkes’ earnest performance and the raw emotional depth he brings to his character is truly one of the highlights of the film.

The supporting characters compliment Hawkes' performance and aid in painting a vivid picture of the small-town with all its complications. Anthony Anderson plays the role of Mike's reluctant brother-in-law Brooks who is worried about Mike's obsession and uneasy about his self-appointed mission. Octavia Spencer plays the role of Mike’s adoptive sister Kelly, who is frustrated by his behavior, yet sticks by him with tough love and intense loyalty. Their performances add layers to the script, making the story more comprehensive and impactful.

A special mention must go to Robert Forster who dons the role of a grieving grandfather who inadvertently becomes entwined in Mike’s investigation. His depiction brings out the softer and emotional side of the story, offering a stark contrast to the rugged terrain of deceit and crime that the film treads.

The directors have done a commendable job in setting a realistic yet thrilling environment. The story unfolds in a way that is not just about solving a crime but also about a man's journey of self-reconciliation with his past and his waning sense of purpose. Moreover, they brought a unique style that seamlessly blends the raw edginess of neo-noir crime-thrillers with the small-town charm and the character-driven storylines of Southern Gothic dramas.

The camerawork and lighting effects in the movie are felicitous, creating an atmosphere of suspense and uncertainty complementing the film's theme. It only enhances the audience's vicarious experience of walking with Mike Kendall through his journey of self-redemption.

"Small Town Crime" does not shy away from serving the cold hard truths of life and shows how one's past can inevitably shape their future. However, it also imbues a message of hope, that individuals can earn their redemption through relentless and strident efforts. The film proves to be a gripping experience that engages the viewers from the beginning until the edge-of-the-seat climax.