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| Images Courtesy of Good Deed Entertainment |
Bank
robberies and heists are one of cinema's most exciting subgenres. Since
almost the inception of the medium, creators have been fascinated with the
criminal mindset and have sought to explore it from countless angles and
origins. Jaime Bailey's (The Mouse Trap) The Omro Heist
eschews a deep philosophical approach in favor of an almost real time delve
into a robbery gone awry. Filmed entirely in Omro, Wisconsin, this is a
fast-paced crime thriller that absolutely pulls no punches.
FBI agent Cole returns to Omro to have breakfast with his father, who is the
town sheriff. What the estranged father and son duo are not aware of is
that a bank robbery is in progress and the day is about to turn extremely bloody.
Bailey co-wrote the script with Simon Phillips, who also stars. The
dialogue is surprisingly memorable, given the budget. This is not only a
love letter to Wisconsin, it is also a tribute to the crime gone wrong genre
that dominated the 90’s in the wake of Pulp Fiction. One of the things
that allows Bailey’s offering to stand out is that this story is shockingly
violent and serious for the most part.
One of the most surprising elements is how strong the ensemble is. Damir Kovic stars as Cole and his performance
is solid, however he is outshined by Phillips' villainous Gerard who steals
almost every second of screentime. Heather Arendt is perhaps
the strongest supporting character, as her firebrand Maria refuses to take any
slack from the robbers. Anthony Crivello is solid as the town sheriff
while Ken Bressers' Mayor Wilkins practically oozes political panache in every
scene he inhabits.
Bailey's cinematography is another strong quality, filming the town of Omro
with an intimacy that only a native could have. The interior shots of the
bank are washed in sepia, almost immediately conjuring memories of Killing
Zoe. The 1990's time period is another strong touch, as a lack of
technology makes things both easier and difficult for both cops and
crooks.
Ultimately, The Omro Heist does not have a lot to say with regards to
ethics and morality. This is a crime story first and foremost and if
there is a surprise, it is in how violent it is. George R.R. Martin would be
appreciative of Bailey's script and story choices. The final yield is a
memorable, small town heist flick that wears its Wisconsin charm with
pride. Those who are looking for a above average heist thriller will not
be disappointed.
--Kyle
Jonathan