Hell or High Water

Trigger Warning: Political Content

Hell or High Water is about some bank robbers in modern day Texas and the Jeff Bridges' character who tries to stop them. In fact, Jeff Bridges is nominated. I guess that makes sense? All the acting is solid in this film, but I'm not sure he was an obvious stand out. 

Someone told me in advance that this film is about the misunderstood Trump voters. These are the rural Americans who are desperate and suffer in poverty and who live with no hope at all. The film opens on a bit of graffiti that states there have been no bailouts for veterans. In fact, throughout we are treated to billboards, signs and advertisements that offer quick cash loans, debt relief and financial assistance. It is woven into their scenery, a part of the landscape. These are the Americans who see nothing positive about the future, but long for a past to which they cannot return. Not a single character big or small in the movie appears to have any satisfaction about their life whatsoever, with the possible exception of Jeff Bridge's, who may enjoy his job and is not looking forward to retirement.

I was fascinated by the tone of this movie. It is, in fact, a Robin Hood story. However, it is not glorified or celebrated, just reported. The bank robbers are clearly making bad choices throughout and while you might understand their plight, I felt no pull toward cheering them on. I imagine the consensus might be different at a screening in rural Texas?

As I watched, the documentary I Am Not Your Negro was brought to mind. In that doc James Baldwin talks about watching American westerns at the cinema as a child. He speaks of John Wayne and explains that even as a child it was clear to him that only white men were entitled to revenge. No people of color in the movies were ever urged on toward revenge, but it appeared to be the celebrated birthright of white men. That sort of blew my mind.

So here is a modern day movie that does present sympathetic characters on their white man's quest. I'm happy to see that today, though some may still hold to the quest, it is not so easily exalted.

The film is also lovely. The washed out color palette of the movie is consistent and pleasing and a reminder that everything is this world is fading and past its prime. I tend to not favor westerns, but I found Hell or High Water thought provoking and enjoyable!