RED RIGHT HAND: A Gritty Southern Thriller Weaves Family Bonds and Brutality
In Eshom and Ian Nelms' RED RIGHT HAND, family ties intertwine with perseverance, alcoholism, faith, and structure. Andie Macdowell's iron-clad portrayal of "Big Cat" leads a small town in fear, forcing two brothers, played by Orlando Bloom and Scott Haze, to confront the dark cloud looming over their lives.
The Nelms brothers craft an Appalachian backwoods thriller reminiscent of classics like BIG BAD MAMMA and ROADHOUSE. MacDowell excels as the formidable villain, bringing depth to her role as a ruthless matriarch. The theme of family resonates as Chapel Oaks, a standout performance, becomes the backbone of the film's progressions.
Orlando Bloom shines as Cash, creating a love/hate dynamic, while Scott Haze's Finney adds layers of complexity. The narrative keeps viewers engaged, and unexpected violent scenes add a captivating intensity. Despite initial expectations, RED RIGHT HAND surprises with its brutality.
The film hits various levels of success, leaving room for anticipation of a second viewing. With the potential for a larger world, RED RIGHT HAND feels like a graphic novel or streaming series. Its solid execution ensures appeal across generations, making it a film your grandfather would watch with you.
Rating: 3.5/5
RED RIGHT HAND
Directed by Eshom Nelms, Ian Nelms
Written by Jonathan Easley
Starring Orlando Bloom, Garret Dillahunt, and Andie MacDowell