Al otro lado de la ley

This film is a difficult watch for the first half. There are many who may even say it is boring, tedious and laborious. And I would be one of them. And yes, perhaps some scenes could have been quickened up and other scenes re-shot to give the opening half of the film more pace.

Having said that, this was unquestionably a serious character-driven film that had many sad and serious undertones but also welcome moments of light humour. I believe this was absolutely deliberate by a very out-there and intelligent director who brought an initially slow script to life and copperfastened by excellent acting throughout, particularly from Gibson and Vaughn.

For me, it is the real-life questions that are asked of us, the viewer, not during this excellent film, but long afterwards, that mark this film out from many others which have considerable less impact.

I would most definitely recommend this film as an excellent watch. But you will need to pass the endurance test of the first half or so, and then you will get your reward over the second half.

Hadn't heard anything about this film before it came up on my Netflix. When I saw the 2 hour and 39 minute runtime I almost took a pass on the film. I'm so glad I didn't. Honestly, once the film started I was drawn into the story by the characters and the acting. The characters are well developed and the acting is solid. Really interesting pairing of Mel Gibson and Vince Vaughn, they work brilliantly opposite each other as do Michael Jai White and Tory Kittles. The dialogue reminded me of Quentin Tarantino. Though I really enjoyed the film, It is extremely slow paced and it could have used some more editing but over all this film is worth watching.

S. Craig Zahler films are a genre onto themselves. Much like Woody Allen or David Lynch movies. So keep that in mind.

Admitted, it's not one of his best, and about 30 mins too long, but it's an anti-hero story.

Characters like this exist in our world. Real life problems are a part of this movie too. Unfortunately, like life, theres not always a happy Hollywood ending.

I enjoyed this movie. Then again, I enjoy S. Craig Zahler's style of story telling

...from writer-director S. Craig Zahler (Bone Tomahawk, Brawl in Cell Block 99). Various characters are on a collision course, including a pair of suspended cops (Mel Gibson & Vince Vaughn), an ex-con (Tory Kittles) and his brother (Michael Jai White), and a mysterious European (Thomas Krestchmann), as they all seek a big pay-out from a heist.

Zahler takes his sweet time developing characters before the big event goes down, as the heist doesn't occur until around the 90 minute mark in this 158 minute film. The dialogue is sharp and often funny, and the characters are all fully drawn. The performances are very good, with Gibson and Kittles the stand-outs. There are a few surprising moments, as well as the over-the-top ultra-violence that is a Zahler hallmark, although this one is less gory than his previous efforts. The film looks more professional, as well, with good, atmospheric cinematography. Recommended to fans of crime films and noir, but only if they have the patience for a slow build-up.

No way near the negative reviews...something kept you hanging on to it and you get to know the characters.... interesting to also include 2 German known actors....liked it....unusual movie these days...and like someone said...it's a movie movie where you have to put time in it....enjoy...