STANDOFF (2016)

Written & Directed By: Adam Alleca 
Cinematography By: Zoran Popovich 
Editor: Susan Maggi 

Cast: Thomas Jane, Laurence Fishburne, Ella Balentine 


Carter, a troubled veteran, gets a chance at redemption by protecting a 12 year-old girl from an assassin after she witnesses a murder. Holding a shotgun with a single shell, he engages in physical and psychological warfare in a desperate fight for the girl's life.


A movie that truly lives up to it's title. Though my exactly what one expects. As the film seems more advertised as an action film, but is actually a taut tight thriller.

The film works due to it's cast who are always engaging and give the material their all despite it being somewhat familiar and predictable.

The film also feels bigger then it should be for a film that takes place mostly in one location. A house, which shows some sharp direction as the film stays moving along and never really boring. Though not necessarily deep either. Nor does it showcase characters who are unique but takes stock characters and makes them a bit more interesting than usual.

The dialogue doesn't run off like prose, but keeps the movie moving along with the necessary filler.

The few action set-pieces that are closed off in small spaces. Keep the film thrilling using the location for all it's worth, letting it be as a part of the action and characters.

It adds to the film by knowing an outcome is coming as each minute passes. It feels like fate is closing in on them.

The innocent children in trouble cliche and tragedy in the past is what fuels the film and it's character as that makes this feel like an action of redemption for the hero played by Thomas Jane.

This is one of the better films that Thomas have had appeared in in awhile. As most of them seem to be more Video on demand material. Here he seems more interested in the material. Not necessarily sleepwalking or giving a performance that is only good enough.

Thomas Jane's background story is similar to the role he played in THE PUNISHER where after the death of his family (minus his wife) he starts drinking and contemplates on committing suicide.

Laurence Fishburne really let's it rip on screen. He hasn't seemed invested and this on fire on screen in quite some time. He also seems to brandish a southern accent. Which also helps make the film feel more like a modern day western.

This is a tight film that has no ounce of humor really.

Though it feels more like a male centered and aimed film. Like a western with two adversaries facing off finally against one another. Though for an entire film. Like a skill of wills with guns.

The film seems to focus on Masculinity and heroism as well as a certain constant toughness throughout.

This film is cold blooded making it a bit unpredictable. Though you know it will be bloody.


Grade: C+