BLUE RUIN (2014)

Written, Directed & Cinematography By: Jeremy Saulnier 
Editor: Julia Bloch 

Cast: Macon Blair, Devin Ratray, Amy Hargreaves, Eve Plumb, Kevin Kolack, Stacy Rock

A mysterious outsider's quiet life is turned upside down when he returns to his childhood home to carry out an act of vengeance. Proving himself an amateur assassin, he winds up in a brutal fight to protect his estranged family.

7 years after his debut film MURDER PARTY. A film I was a huge fan of director Jeremy Saulnier makes a comeback with this follow up film that is markedly different in genre and tone. That shows off his talents as a director and shows that he is one to keep an eye in as his work is evolving in different and interesting ways. This is a passion project as he seems to have done most of the major jobs behind the scenes as well as rustling funding from many places including online crowd funding site kickstarter. Here he has a film he can certainly be proud of

This film feels like a film that was plucked from the 70's or 80's as it feels more minute and attentive to details. That give the film a more naturalistic and atmospheric feel.

It's a revenge film that truly shows the troubles that can happen ice you decide to take justice into your own hands. The consequences that can happen. That a film like the Kevin bacon starter DEATH SENTENCE tried to give the same message, but failed generally. More due to it seeming more violent exploitive. Here you see the cycle of violence that can result from revenge. Especially how it can affect Those who you care about. Who might be innocent in the whole scheme of things.

The film has with a lead who is a bit of a mystery played by Macon Blair even though he is our protagonist. We never learn his exact past we get a few clues and glimpses. Though we never quite understand the reason for his chosen solitude and willing homelessness . His transformation eventually in the film makes him look different. Almost unrecognizable. No real transformation. Even in planning for the onslaught he doesn't go from timid to skilled warrior. Thankfully he stays a novice. Though picks up some know how. So that he is better than just a beginner. Barely.

The violence of the film nor any of the scenes feel exploitive. They feel more realistic and truly feels how some situations would normally occur. Though the film is obviously smart as the characters act and think of things other movies neglect or never approach. It reminds you of the Cone Brothers films NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN in particular as far as mood and tone, Even some part of the story. Though not as grand and insightful. So that it has it'sown personality and character.

The film has some off kilter casting. Starting with Eve Plumb that's right jam from the brad bunch as one of the members of the murderous criminal family seeking retribution. And The film even boasts actor Devin Ratray from a trilogy of films from my youth as well as others the first two HOME ALONE FILMS and though more a cult film the Fred Savage starring LITTLE MONSTERS as well as other films of my youth. Here he is grown up and dangerous. Though seems to be the type of guy the Characters he played would grow up to be.

You can tell with this film a lot of thought went into it. It might seek like a basic familiar set up. Though the small details make a difference as they truly illustrate what makes the film different and it's own.

Definitely Worth Watching, Seek it out

Grade: B