The Death of Dick Long

The 2019 film The Death of Dick Long is a unique blend of dark comedy and intense drama. This intriguing movie is directed by Daniel Scheinert, who is famous for his work on "Swiss Army Man". Set against the surreally scenic backdrop of Alabama, the film explores the chaotic aftermath of a hilariously tragic night. The strong performances of the main cast include Michael Abbott Jr., Virginia Newcomb, and Andre Hyland, who bring sincerity to their absurdly drawn-out characters, and a sharp contrast is rendered between their mundane lives and the extraordinary secrets that they unravel.

In the film, Michael Abbott Jr. brilliantly portrays Zeke, a character who initially appears to be just another small-town guy living in Alabama and is a devoted family man. However, as the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that he has secrets that are far from ordinary. His unlikely companions and best friends are portrayed by Andre Hyland, who emphasizes the carefree Dion, and the mysterious Dick Long, who gives the movie its title.

Dick Long's death sets off a bizarre chain of events that takes the viewer on a rollercoaster ride. After a band practice that transforms into a night of wild revelry, Zeke and Dion find themselves tangled in an increasingly complicated web of misfortunes and missteps.

The Death of Dick Long captures the ensuing chaos that follows the crucial event. As Zeke and Dion try to keep their shenanigans a secret from their loved ones and the rest of the town, they stumble their way through the investigation launched by local authorities. Virginia Newcomb portrays Lydia, Zeke's wife, who is kept in the dark about her husband’s night time escapades. Newcomb perfomrs excellently, as Lydia becomes increasingly suspicious due to her husband's strange behaviour.

The film employs an impressive use of comedic moments woven through serious and surprise-filled plotlines. The viewer is always on edge, struck by occasional laughter but also held by the suspense of the narrative’s unfolding secrecy. The Death of Dick Long successfully maintains this tension between dark humour and shock throughout its duration, making it an enjoyably suspenseful drama-comedy.

The central theme of The Death of Dick Long revolves around the severity of secrets and the intricate dance of hiding them from the people we trust the most. The film is a testament to the small-town existence, vividly painting the lives of ordinary people thrown into extraordinary circumstances. The complexities of friend loyalty and the lengths one will go to hide the truth are explored extensively in the movie.

The film is also supported with an atmospheric sound design and a thoughtful, twangy soundtrack that adds depth to the narrative and the characters, while keeping the viewer entertained and engaged. The cinematographic rendering of rural Alabama also adds to the authenticity and transportive nature of the film, roping the viewer with its visual allure.

Moreover, apart from the characters and the setting, the dialogues of the film punctuate its stylistic appeal. The humorous undercurrent running through serious conversations further amplifies a sense of the absurd which sets the tone for the twisted secrets to unravel.

In sum, The Death of Dick Long is an engaging film that presents an intricate balance of dark humor and suspense, powered by strong performances and skilled storytelling. The movie carefully navigates through the aftermath of a hilarious tragedy in an ordinary setting, extending to the viewer a gripping narrative of secrets, lies, and misfortunes. Through its leisurely pace, the movie grants the viewer the possibility of immersing themselves into the unfolding mystery, guessing and second-guessing the outcomes. This film is a perfect pick for those who are fond of dark comedies and unconventional plots.