Hell or High Water: Movie Review

Last year, actor-turned-writer Tyler Sheridan helped make 2015’s “Sicario” one of the best films of the year. Sheridan proves with his sophomore screenplay “Hell or High Water”, that this guy can truly write.  It isn’t just about Sheridan’s words though. Director David Mackenzie along with a stellar cast that includes Chris Pine, Ben Foster, and Jeff Bridges all come together to create a truly fantastic film.

Set in West Texas, brothers Tanner (Foster) and Toby (Pine) have a limited amount of time before the bank forecloses on the farm that Toby plans to leave to his son.  What makes this piece of land so very valuable is that a wealth of oil is directly below it.  The bank of course does not want Toby to come up with the money, because they want that land.  The only way Toby can secure the amount needed is to rob not just one bank, but multiple banks.  His ex-con, short tempered brother Tanner is more than willing to help his brother. As the brothers get closer to their goal, Texas Ranger Marcus Hamilton (Bridges) and his partner Alberto Parker (Gil Birmingham) get closer to tracking them down.

“Hell or High Water” is definitely not a fast-paced crime-drama, but it is completely engaging. Pine brings his “A” game and Foster gives another in a series of stand-out performances.  Bridges is also absolutely fantastic here and I loved the dynamic between his character and that of his partners.  Those who enjoy a well-executed crime film, will definitely want to check this one out.

By: Marc Ferman