Let Him Go (2020)

Writer/director Bezucha's neo-western thriller is being sold as a bloody revenge tale but it's really more of an intense deconstruction of family and gender roles in traditional America. With subtle and not so subtle nods to the holes in the glamorized American mid-20th century idealism (from domestic abuse, to the cultural genocide of Native Americans, to corruption in law enforcement) Let Him Go is a fascinating character study and intensely riveting. 

The film truly is centered on Diane Lane's character. She is the heart of the film, moving forward the action and providing the strength of the story. She is outstanding in this role, a role that demands her to be so many things all at once, and she is breathtaking. Also wonderful is Lesley Manville as her opposite. The men in the film are rather sidelined to tell this story, this female centered story.

The film is told patiently and quietly with simmering tensions just under the surface, bubbling up in a few moments that are gut wrenching. Bezucha's restraint keeps the story elevated, allowing the most intense moments all the more powerful, and real. While I felt the ending rushed things a bit, the film otherwise is very well paced.

Let Him Go grabs you tells you a powerful story that is gripping. It is also emotionally resonate, so much so that you'll hold your breath watching this film and only let it go once you feel comfortable breathing again. I've always enjoyed Lane and it's great to see her in such a wonderful role, in such a well made film. 

Let Him Go

Starring: Diane Lane, Kevin Costner, Lesley Manville, Jeffrey Donovan

Writer/Director: Thomas Bazucha