FREE FIRE (2017)

Directed By: Ben Wheatley 
Written & Edited By: Amy Jump & Ben Wheatley 
Cinematography By: Laurie Rose 

Cast: Armie Hammer, Brie Larson, Cillian Murphy, Sharito Copley Noah Taylor, Sam Riley, Michael Smiley, Jack Reynor, Babou Cassey, Patrick Bergin 

Set in Boston in 1978, a meeting in a deserted warehouse between two gangs turns into a shootout and a game of survival.

This film has a pure black comedy edge. That can be macabre but tries not to overdo it or just be about that. It ends up being a very fun movie that doesn't take itself too seriously.

The film is basically a 90 minute shootout which has friendly fire, double crosses, grudges of all kind, very few of the characters are actually smart as they think they are. More reacting off of pure instinct and guts.

The action is actually understandable and looks correct. Unlike some action films where the action can get confusing as the logistics make no sense. But it looks cool. So few people question it. Here you understand where everyone is or at least positioned. While it seems like this film would be more of n action extravaganza. It is more humorous and thrilling than any set pieces.

The film feels partly like a Quentin Tarantino knock off. Though is better made than most of those films and has an attitude and character all it’s own.

Most of the actors are of European, Scottish, Irish, British decent so they lay it on a bit too thick in trying to be American accents . Though I believe that is part of the fun. As the film is more of an ensemble film rather then clearly having any main stars or leads. Sharito Copley's performance in particular is pure comedic gold.

This is a movie built of exhilaration. Though it is small scale. It's a movie you just sit back and enjoy and don't think about too much. Even though the film isn't dumb. It is a technical masterpiece.

It's just a fun film. That is set in dire serious circumstances but builds up the humor of the situation with powerful results. You watch tension build, but towards what you are not exactly sure. Not to mention there are no clear heroes or villains it's more take your pick as to who you like and hope that they make it to the end.

The film leaves one more than A little dismayed that the first injured or killed are the few minorities in the film.

The film is shocking in how enjoyable the film is. It is never boring even if after a while it does seem to get repitious. It still managers to keep the audience invested and caring about the characters and how it will all turn out.

This is the type of film I am shocked wasn't made in the 1970's where it is set. As this seems more the freewheeling pure genre film. that has fun with itself and puts out a lot of ideas and though it has basic characters makes them fun and funny.

This film would make a good double feature with RESERVOIR DOGS. Even if this film is a bit more freewheeling

Grade: B