From the description, I was expecting some sort of crime drama. Yes, there is a crime late in the movie, but there are no shootouts, no car chases, no shootouts...
This is mostly a family drama. C Thomas Howell is eight years younger than me, but looks about ten years older, possibly due to major health issues in his past. Whatever the reason, his grizzled looks and growly voice are picture perfect for his role as the father struggling to pay for his daughter's medical bills, as well as re-connect with an estranged son fresh out of prison.
He plays a salt-of-the-earth former champion bull rider, the middle of three generations. Interestingly, Howell's real-life father was a professional bull rider and he himself was a professional roper. So he has the street cred to play this role.
Jake Allyn as the estranged son is equally good. His stoic demeanour is a mask under which he hides his guilt for a past mistake, while trying to work his way into his family's good graces with the help of his caring grandfather.
The rest of the main cast are all equally strong.
It's filmed in a leisurely pseudo-documentary style with a grainy washed-out look, and lots of close ups and over-the-shoulder shots which helps to establish intimacy.
I really enjoyed this movie. I wouldn't quibble with anyone who gave it a six, but I'm at an age where I'm more interested in people stories rather than action movies so it gets one more star from me.
