Watch the trailer and find out more, after the jump...
Michael Winterbottom is a director who's always been able to switch between styles. I'd call myself a fan of his output, but can't see too many common themes between 24 Hour Party People's Madchester vibe and the snow hills and gold rush drama of The Claim. Here he takes a bold leap into film noir, and pitch black noir at that.

This film has took some heat for its depictions of violence against women, and whilst it's certainly unsettling, the point to its inclusion is obvious. Lou Ford is shown to be a sadomasochistic lunatic, and if you think he's someone to relate to, you've got problems that go back further than this film. Also, not to underplay what's shown (connecting punches are clear to see), but it never reaches the ultra violence of films like Irreversible. It's still quite a startling thing to see Affleck's character punish women for no real reason except for slight personal gain.

The actual story is fairly inconsequential, but through flashbacks to his childhood allows a certain amount of mystery as to why Lou Ford chooses to act this way. He is a complex and dangerous character, and definitely isn't some sort of anti-hero you can relate to. I experienced a level of disgust at his propensity to enjoy both his violent outbursts and the relative ease in covering them up.

A thought provoking and disturbing crime drama, anchored by a strong lead performance by Casey Affleck as the violent lawman. As a character study about violent offenders, it might actually be seen as quite an important film.
Verdict
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