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| Images Courtesy of Good Dead Entertainment |
Small town secrets are an entire cinematic genre. Travis Burgess' latest feature film, Hayseed filters black comedy and mayhem through a whodunnit lens that brims with larger-than-life characters, genuine emotional resonance, and some truly hilarious dialogue to present a Michigan flavored murder mystery as a slice of life affair. Comparisons to Fargo and the more recent Knives Out films are unavoidable, but the brilliance of this film is in how it leans into its own shortcomings and embraces humor over nihilistic satire. Featuring a terrific central performance, genuine twists and turns, and a playful, yet somber tone, this is one of the year's best surprises.
When the Pastor of a local church in a small Michigan
community is found drowned in the church's baptismal pool, insurance
investigator Leo (an ex-cop) is sent to investigate. What begins as an
open and shut accident case quickly transforms into a complex murder
mystery. Burgess' script and his choice to film in his hometown combine
to create a certain unique vibe that permeates the film. On the surface
this is a very bright film, filled with colors and lights that highlights a
simple, if a bit shady community that is reeling in shock from the loss of a
spiritual leader. However, as the proceedings continue, and Leo's own
past traumas come to the fore as he gets closer to the truth, and the dark
underbelly of this quiet community begins to reveal itself. While nowhere
near as madcap as Blue Velvet, Hayseed explores a similar concept, and
does so in an appealing way.
Bill Sage's performance as Leo is both heartbreaking and
hilarious. This is a man who has been used up by the world, and yet, he
cannot help but to be a detective. His chemistry with Ismenia Mendes is
the high point as they delve deeper in the murder, their relationship becomes
one of trust and confession, as everyone in Burgess' playground of the American
Dream has skeletons to hide.
Brad Porter's cinematography is the last suspect, filming the two
aforementioned worlds in bright lights and deep shadows, and still managing to
find small town charm in each. This is perhaps the strongest element of Hayseed.
It is a simple murder story whose characters are made real by the environment,
the attention to detail, and the genuine care for the subject matter, all made
possible through Burgess' adoration for the town that he grew up in.
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Now available to streaming, Hayseed is a light,
often laugh out loud affair that will keep you guessing right up until the big
reveal. Memorable characters with realistic and catchy dialogue are used
to great effect to ensure that the town and its rogue's gallery of suburban
degenerates never outstay their welcome. If you are interested in a good, old
fashioned mystery with modern sensibilities, do not pass this one up.
--Kyle Jonathan