Shotgun Stories

USA 2007, 87 minutes
Dir. Jeff Nichols
English
Genres: Drama, Suspense/Crime / Independent

Feat. Michael Shannon, Douglas Ligon, Barlow Jacobs, Natalie Canerday

Aroview: Sturdy, atmospheric independent drama detailing the simmering rivalry between two sets of half-brothers which boils over after the death of their mutual father.

Co-produced by director David Gordon Green, this bares his signature understatement, sympathetic tone, and dedication to authentic locations (Arkansas), social strata (working-class) and performances (led by the charismatic Michael Shannon). While ultimately a conventional 'sins of the father' morality tale, it is compellingly told and lovingly crafted, and marks a promising feature debut for its writer/director.

Member Reviews

Average rating (Very Good). Showing 1-2 of 2 member reviews.

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4 stars (Very Good) Deep and almost unfathomable social dysfunction. Beautifully crafted, slow and understated, sensitive and almost sombre film about not much except unfinished business between old acquaintances.Filming captures local colour. Ends in hope, despite the odds. ~Anon
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3 stars (Good Enough) The pacing of the story is that appropriate to a left-behind small town but it never drags thanks to some seamless editing and compact storytelling. An excellent anti-climatic ending avoids the usual pitfalls. ~Tubbs