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| Limited theatrical release and VOD |
It seems somewhat unusual that first time writer and
director Knate Gwaltney would choose such a dramatic story to tell, since he is
mostly known for his work on Jackass, Bad
Grandpa, and some other similar television series. But he creates a good
tale and a host of fascinating characters that are set within this environment.
Difficult themes are touched upon that include mental illness, the lifestyle
and culture that are part of being homeless, and the fact that these are real
people who have their own stories to tell. That is something that most people
take for granted, often trying to ignore the fact that they even exist as we
pass by them. The dialogue seems realistic to the characters and the situations
and you do become invested in Willie as the film moves forward.
A large portion of the narrative is told through a
combination of establishing camera shots, music, and narration. Most of the
camera work is used to further set up the characters and what’s going on with
them, while also making the viewer take in their environment and what their
lives are like. There are several memorable scenes that involved the camera
panning in or pulling away, often combined with some rather effective music.
The fight sequences where filmed in a shaky cam style, which helped create a
more hectic and real situation. The score from Jess Stroup is absolutely superb
and really adds onto the emotional journey that the viewer is taken on.
Church is simply brilliant in this with his stunning portrayal of the almost childlike Willie, creating a unique and interesting person through a blend of facial expressions, physical style, and a distinctive speech pattern. The camera is often placed on him without the use of any dialogue, leaving him to paint a portrait of this man through his expressions alone. Other times, he narrates portions of the movie, providing us with more information about himself. If this weren’t the type of small independent production that often gets overlooked, it is the type of role that would put Church in the discussion for an Academy Award nomination. The other performances are adequately played, but he carries this picture. Terrence Howard is decent in the minimal amount of screen time that his role is afforded. Boyd Holbrook (Narcos) is terrific in his role as a wheelchair bound homeless war veteran who befriends Willie. The rest of the cast that portray the other homeless individuals are all wonderful, creating a host of eclectic characters.
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| Will act for food. |
The excellent supporting cast combined with Thomas Haden
Church’s fantastic portrayal of the cardboard boxer makes this drama demanding
of attention.
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-Raul Vantassle
-Raul Vantassle