Lawless [2012]

Language - English
Director - John Hillcoat
Run Time - 1 hour, 56 minutes
Genre - Crime/Drama/Western
Starring - Tom Hardy, Shia LaBeouf

With such a star cast, and with Tom Hardy, one could never go wrong, and John Hillcoat certainly does not go wrong. Lawless, is simply marvelous. I'm not a big fan of westerns, but this movie did manege to grip me, and kept me enthralled thoughout.  This movie is based on a true story which focuses upon the so-believed immortal 'Bondurant Boys' fight against prohibition in the 1930's in the US State of Virginia. All actors have been cast perfectly and the movie is a smooth sail. Though I do think the character of Floyd Banner [Gary Oldman] could have been given a little bit more coverage.
That would be the only part of the movie I could criticize.

Forrest [Tom Hardy], Howard [Jason Clarke] and Jack [Shia Labeouf] are three brothers who earn their living through selling whiskey in the times of prohibition in Franklin County, Virginia. The business is successful, with them having a cooperation with the local police. But everything can't be smooth sailing and enter Special Deputy Charlie Rakes [Guy Pearce] who shows up demanding a cut from the profits too, which the Bondurants aren't willing to give him. What ensues is a bloody battle between the two parties. Through out the movie, we get to see an amazing character evolution of Jack. who tries to step out of his brothers shadows.

The supporting characters are all very good, be it Jessica Chastain as Maggie or Mia Wasikowski as Bertha, the various love interests of Forrest and Jack. Some credit is due to Jason Clarke for portraying the always drunk, but always tough brother for his small role. Guy Pearce as Special Deputy Charlie Rakes is just splendid. The conviction with which he rendered his role was amazing. Even though Charlie Rakes might not have had that much screen time as the leading characters of our movies, he will be the one character that truly strikes out, and will be remembered for his peculiarity.

The soundtrack for the movie is well made, with contributions from leading country singers like Nick Cave and Emmylou Harris.

In all, I really enjoyed the movie. Though it is quite gritty. Soft-hearted people should look away.

My Rating - 7.5/10