It's 1906 Oklahoma territories. Henry (Tim Blake Nelson) is a dirt farmer. His son Wyatt (Gavin Lewis) is desperate to get out from under his thumb and learn to shoot guns for himself. One day, Henry finds Curry (Scott Haze) shot and left for dead. He also finds a satchel full of cash and immediately sees the danger. He obviously doesn't want to get involved. Nevertheless, he brings Curry home and treated back to health. Ketchum (Stephen Dorff) arrives with his men looking for Curry. They claim to be lawmen looking for a fugitive. Henry knows better.
Tim Blake Nelson is the man. The only flaw in his character is the times he's just standing out in the open in front of his house. It made me very uncomfortable. I wanted to scream at him to take cover but I also understand the premise that he sees no threat from these gunmen. It's not true but I get the literary flourish. I do love the way he stands like a real gunfighter. It's subtle but obvious. The kid is more problematic. It's not only his attitude but his manner of speech. Sure, he's whiney but he's almost whining with an ill-fitting voice. He's trying too hard and stands out like a sore thumb. I also question Dorff's performance. His acting is a bit too modern. He has a natural casualness. He needs a darker quieter menace for the role. He may not be cast right. In the end, it's all about Tim Blake Nelson and the man rules.
Tim Blake Nelson is the man. The only flaw in his character is the times he's just standing out in the open in front of his house. It made me very uncomfortable. I wanted to scream at him to take cover but I also understand the premise that he sees no threat from these gunmen. It's not true but I get the literary flourish. I do love the way he stands like a real gunfighter. It's subtle but obvious. The kid is more problematic. It's not only his attitude but his manner of speech. Sure, he's whiney but he's almost whining with an ill-fitting voice. He's trying too hard and stands out like a sore thumb. I also question Dorff's performance. His acting is a bit too modern. He has a natural casualness. He needs a darker quieter menace for the role. He may not be cast right. In the end, it's all about Tim Blake Nelson and the man rules.