Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Michael Stuhlbarg | ... | Derby Milton | |
Bruce Dern | ... | Georgie Wits | |
John Malkovich | ... | Sheriff Vogel | |
Joyce Robbins | ... | Mrs. Margaret | |
Christian Distefano | ... | Wyatt | |
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Aiden Longworth | ... | Mason |
Teresa Palmer | ... | Cassandra Steeley | |
Liam Hemsworth | ... | Dwayne McLaren | |
Billy Bob Thornton | ... | Big Stan Steeley | |
Chilton Crane | ... | Mrs. Steeley | |
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David Burke | ... | Match Tasunke |
King Lau | ... | Nurse | |
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Stephen Hair | ... | Orson McClaren |
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Len Crowther | ... | Mr. Randall |
Holly Turner | ... | Mimi |
Dwayne McClaren has been looking for a way out of his small town upbringing of CUT BANK, MT since he graduated high school several years earlier. When he finds himself in the wrong place at the right time, he jumps at a chance to pursue a better life in a bigger city with his girlfriend Cassandra. But luck doesn't exist in Cut Bank, and this perceived good fortune is quickly followed by a flood of bad karma. Written by anonymous
"Cut Bank" is a moody noir mystery/thriller that deserves much better reviews than the middling critiques it has received. It is evocative of Coen brothers films like "Fargo," "Blood Simple" and "The Ladykillers," but manages to be original and unpredictable. Performances by the top-notch cast are low-key, but credible. The atmosphere is suitably dreary, desolate and depressing. Technical aspects are adequate, if not inspired.
The denouement is emotionally satisfying if one puts ones brain on hold and ignores everything one knows about forensic science. The film offers a flimsy rationale based on the small town setting, but it still tests the limits of the audience's willful suspension of disbelief. However, other events are well-grounded. The motives and capabilities of the villain are a bit over the top, but not so much as to distract.
Overall it is an engaging and original noir film with excellent performances by a talented cast.