In a Nutshell. Mini reviews of movies old and new. No fuss. No spoilers. And often no sleep.

Thursday 4 June 2020

The Duel (2016)

Texas Ranger David Kingston (Liam Hemsworth) is sent to investigate the disappearance of a number of Mexican citizens in Mount Hermon, a Texan town, which brings him into contact with a man he's not seen for twenty-two years. The man is Abraham Brant (Woody Harrelson), who, since their last meeting in rain and blood, has supposedly been "touched by God".
There's a decent sense of hostility in the townsfolk, but Hemsworth is pretty bland much of the time, coming alive only when armed and angered. In contrast, there's a hint of Colonel Kurtz about Harrelson's Abraham, leading with a hospitality that's threatening. The supporting characters feel very 'written' for purpose, including Abraham's son Isaac (Emory Cohen), who's both a thorn in the Ranger's side and a bitter disappointment to his father.

2½ dust coverings out of 5

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