Years into the Great Depression in 1930s Oregon, Samuel Murphy (Ethan Hawke) is imprisoned and sent to a work camp, leaving his daughter behind. With no other options, he is offered early release by Warden Clancy (Russell Crowe) if he agrees to undertake a dangerous gold smuggling mission in the wilderness. As betrayal and greed take hold of his crew, Murphy goes to unreasonable lengths to see his child again.
"The Weight" premiered to glowing reviews at this year's Sundance Film Festival and is currently showing on limited screens in New Zealand. Starring Ethan Hawke in his grittiest and most physically demanding work yet, alongside a commendable Russell Crowe, the film moves through its forest setting with rapid tension and heavy introspection reminiscent of old Paul Newman actioners. It goes from one big set piece to another with surprising intimacy, turning a memorable bridge scene à la "Indiana Jones" into a brewing character study among the smuggling crew.
"The Weight" is phenomenal, but it feels uneven in giving its supporting characters solid emotional arcs. Crowe's Warden would have been a stronger role had he been more involved rather than an afterthought. However, I cannot stress enough what a blast this film is. Judging by how few people are seeing it, "The Weight" is the awards contender I wish pundits and voters would set their sights on.
“The Weight” is now showing in New Zealand cinemas.
Featured images from Rialto Distribution.
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