American Outlaws

"American Outlaws" (2023) is a surprisingly compelling crime drama that manages to transcend its indie roots, delivering a gripping and well-crafted story of sibling loyalty pushed to its limits. Director Sean McEwen has done a commendable job in bringing the true story of the Dougherty Gang to the screen, focusing on the intense bond between the three siblings as they embark on a cross-country crime spree. What truly elevates the film is its ability to create a sense of authenticity and palpable tension throughout. The cinematography is particularly noteworthy, with close-up camera angles that effectively heighten the action during car chases and shoot-outs, making it feel far grander than its budget might suggest. The cast, especially India Eisley, Emory Cohen, and Sam Strike, deliver committed performances that make their characters' desperate choices understandable, even as their actions become increasingly reckless. While the film doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of their criminal escapades, it maintains a focus on the unwavering commitment they have to one another. "American Outlaws" is a testament to resourceful filmmaking, proving that a compelling narrative and strong performances can overcome any budgetary constraints, resulting in a thrilling and engaging cinematic experience.

The budget for this film well under 100k with the biggest expense being wrecking a used 1995 sedan.

Not much to see here, three siblings are trying hard to be criminals and just come off as complete amateurs. The closeup camera work and needless screen tilt is most likely done with an old Iphone for many of the scenes.

Script is bad, dialogue is teen age dirtbag cringey and the entire plot is simple and predictable.

Most likely this is a self financed project by the writer/director and Treat Williams was in debt a favor and cashed in his chip.

Most likely this is a self financed project by the writer/director and Treat Williams was in debt a favor and cashed in his chip.

One of those movies with potential, that surely aint bad at all, but just doesnt seem to be able to thrill or move me.

Not any good? The start of the movie is kinda promising. The actors for sure aint bad either, but after having watched them for half an hour I was missing that special actor's chemistry that makes me sympathize with the characters, which did not happen in this case.

More bad: the story sounds kinda thrilling when I read the plot, but the actual movie, especially the middle part, is quite tedious to be honest. Nohting much happens, besides some doodling around at a beautiful lake.

Short on actor's charisma. Short on thrill and suspense. Not bad, not great...

First off, great cast, especially in regards to India Eisley and Treat Williams (rest in peace, will be missed). Both characters (as well as her two on screen brothers) have their stuggles and motives portrayed well.

I like to portrayal of poverty stricken areas the film starts in and the beautiful road trip locations, so its competent visually.

Not great in the pacing (some scenes go on longer than needed) or writing departments, Ending was in the middle of nowhere instead of in an urban area where the real people were arrested.

Not the best film, but there are much worse examples out there.

This based-on-true-events little indie gem is newb filmmaker Sean McEwen's 3rd writing and 2nd directorial full length feature film credit, with only some TV series and a few short films as prior experience, but you'd think this film was put together by a seasoned filmmaker with a big Hollywood budget.

I really can't find anything to critique or say could've been done better, especially when I was expecting a ton of rookie filmmaking mistakes and typical B-grade filmmaking annoyances. Maybe the pacing could've been a little better and about 5-10 mins cut out, but everything else was so well done, I shouldn't complain. The cinematography was spot on, if not perfect, and McEwen sure knows how to shoot an action thriller with his effective use of close-ups, ariel shots and camera angles. The score and soundtrack were outstanding - that alone is a huge feat, as the score in B films is always loud, annoying, overbearing and unfitting.

McEwen's screenplay was exceptional, with a very coherent and cohesive narrative. His use of actual past TV news clips from the real events inserted at the right times elevated his story telling. The entire 99 min runtime was used effectively, and maintained a constant engaging tone and level of suspense. McEwen even nailed directing his cast effectively, as all casting and performances were excellent and convincing, particularly the three siblings that nail down the specific dynamic of this family, especially India Eisley who shined as the troubled Lee-Grace Dougherty sister.

Huge props to the entire cast and crew for creating such a great film. I can honestly say this is in my top 10 must-see low budget independent B-grade films of all time, and I've seen a lot of films - click on my username to see my over 3,300 ratings and over 1,700 reviews. McEwen certainly is an up and coming filmmaker to keep an eye out for, and his little gem American Outlaws is a well deserved 8/10 from me.