Trust, Greed, Bullets, and Bourbon

Trust, Greed, Bullets and Bourbon is an intriguing crime comedy-drama directed and written by Scott Kawczynski in 2013. The film is a suspenseful romp through the risky and unforgiving world of criminal life, where suspicion and uncertainty are the rules of the day. It features an eclectic and talented ensemble cast that includes Max Casella, Eric William Morris, and Larisa Polonsky, among others, who all help to deliver a compelling and intricately woven narrative that keeps viewers on the edge.

The foundation of the plot points back five years to a spectacularly failed diamond heist. These gems were not any ordinary rocks, but a collection of diamonds valued immensely for their rarity and perfection. While the heist itself was carried out quite smoothly, the aftermath saw the crew experience a spectacular downfall due to their mistrust, greed, and a relentless pursuit by law enforcement.

Max Casella plays the role of Tyler, the notoriously clever and suspicious guy who was the brain behind the operation. He didn’t partake in the theft physically, but his brilliant and elaborate planning made the crime possible. Post heist, he had to spend five years in prison, shouldering the blame for the entire crew's misdeeds. Upon his release, however, the first thing he does is gather the old crew together to find the hidden diamonds, supposedly misplaced since the occurrence of the crime.

Eric William Morris plays the role of Guy, a crucial member of the team, while Larisa Polonsky plays Sasha, who brings an interesting twist to the story, offering several memorable moments. The film is replete with performances that are credible, and while everyone has their own motivations, the movie dives into the question of "Who really has the diamonds?" as skepticism and paranoia set in among the group.

In this frame, Trust, Greed, Bullets, and Bourbon play out a cat and mouse game while unfolding the incidents of the past slowly but steadily in a series of flashbacks. The film, thereby, gradually deconstructs the characters, revealing their layers and motives one at a time, ensuring a tight, suspenseful narrative.

Yet, the film is rich in more than just suspense. It also sweeps up its audience in an exploration of the human condition, with thematic cornerstones that include trust, deceit, greed, loyalty, and betrayal. The viewer is urged to consider the dualities that exist within each character, mirroring the complexities and contradictions that reside within every human being.

While the intricate plot keeps viewers consistently engaged, the film’s enchanting cinematography contributes much to its allure. The breathtaking landscapes of upstate New York, which serve as the backdrop for much of the movie, lend a rustic, almost haunting charm to this narrative, while the stylistic camera work adds a layer of profundity and suspense to the storytelling.

Moreover, the movie's comedic undertone, juxtaposed against the tense thrills and the slowly building suspense, sets it apart in the genre. The carefully inserted dark humor gives viewers occasional relief in the high-pressure robbery story, enhancing the viewer's engagement and conveying the ultimate message that even in desperate times, humor can serve as a respite.

The film’s music is another highlight. It aptly adds to the atmosphere, ensuring the right mood is set for every scene, complimenting the distinct narrative tones throughout the film, from suspense, to drama, and humor.

Overall, Trust, Greed, Bullets, and Bourbon serves as a captivating cinematic journey that blends elements of crime, comedy, suspense, and drama into a distinctive, memorable mix. It serves a palate of varied emotions, bound to leave viewers pondering over the essence of human relationships, trust, and the lengths individuals are pushed to when swayed by desire. It may be categorized as a crime comedy-drama, yet the storytelling and performances elevate the movie, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre and general cinephiles alike.