Wind River (2017)

User Review

• 

  TheReelBurke

  9 / 10

  This film was a huge surprise and will probably end up on my Top 10 of the year. This film held my attention from the moment it opened. Jeremy Renner has given what I think is his best performance to date. The way he subtly portrays the pain he's holding within felt real and human. Gil Birmingham gives a performance that is so visceral and so crushing I can't understand why he isn't in everything. The interactions and conversations between their characters are the best parts of the film. I can't praise the acting performances without also praising Sheridan's direction. The way he made the environment feel like another character in the film. This film felt like it couldn't have taken place anywhere else. When the pace quickens during the action sequences it feels so natural and the way its shot keeps it from feeling over the top.
  
  As much as I love this film I did have a few things I didn't like about it. The first act of the film was a little slow. The film could have benefited from a little bit more momentum from the start. Also, there are a few instances where the characters over explained themselves.
  
  Renner and Birmingham both give performances that hopefully are not forgotten about come Oscar season. Even though Wing River is not as good as Sicario or Hell or High Water, Taylor Sheridan definitely showed he is able to wear both the hat of both writer and director and I can't wait to see what he turns out next. Even with those small negatives, some might deem nitpicky this film is a must watch.

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