Lawless (2012) Review: A Gritty Tale of Brotherhood and Crime
Lawless, directed by John Hillcoat and released in 2012, is a gripping crime drama set during the Prohibition era in the United States. Based on Matt Bondurant’s novel The Wettest County in the World, the film stars Shia LaBeouf, Tom Hardy, and Jason Clarke as the Bondurant brothers, who are engaged in illegal moonshine production in rural Virginia. The film explores themes of loyalty, violence, and survival in a lawless time, blending historical context with intense character drama.
Plot Summary: Moonshine and Mayhem
Set in the 1930s, Lawless follows the Bondurant brothers—Forrest (Tom Hardy), Howard (Jason Clarke), and Jack (Shia LaBeouf)—who run a successful moonshine operation in Franklin County, Virginia. The film depicts their struggle to maintain their business and protect their territory from corrupt law enforcement and rival criminals.
When a new special agent named Charlie Rakes (Guy Pearce) arrives in town, he threatens to dismantle the Bondurants’ operation. Rakes, known for his ruthless and violent methods, imposes a heavy toll on the local moonshiners, leading to a confrontation with the Bondurants. As tensions rise, the brothers must navigate violence, betrayal, and personal conflicts to protect their way of life and family.
The narrative is driven by the brothers’ resistance to Rakes’ demands and their efforts to stay one step ahead of both the law and their rivals. The film’s portrayal of Prohibition-era crime and the harsh realities of the time adds depth to the story, highlighting the complex dynamics of power and survival.
Performance and Characterization: A Strong Ensemble Cast
The performances in Lawless are a standout feature of the film. Tom Hardy delivers a commanding performance as Forrest Bondurant, the tough and enigmatic leader of the brothers. Hardy’s portrayal captures Forrest’s rugged determination and sense of honor, making him a compelling and sympathetic character.
Shia LaBeouf plays Jack Bondurant, the youngest brother who is eager to prove himself. LaBeouf’s performance adds a sense of vulnerability and ambition to the film, depicting Jack’s growth and struggle as he faces increasingly dangerous challenges.
Jason Clarke’s portrayal of Howard Bondurant provides a sense of raw intensity and loyalty. Clarke’s performance adds depth to the brotherly dynamic and highlights the bonds that drive the characters’ actions.
Guy Pearce stands out as Charlie Rakes, the film’s antagonist. Pearce’s portrayal of Rakes is both menacing and charismatic, capturing the character’s sadistic nature and ruthless determination. His performance serves as a strong counterpoint to the Bondurant brothers, adding tension and conflict to the narrative.
Supporting performances by Jessica Chastain, who plays Maggie Beauford, a dancer with a past who becomes romantically involved with Forrest, and Mia Wasikowska, as Bertha Minnix, Jack’s love interest, further enrich the film’s character dynamics and emotional depth.
Direction and Cinematography: A Gritty and Authentic Atmosphere
John Hillcoat’s direction of Lawless is marked by its gritty and authentic portrayal of the Prohibition era. Hillcoat’s approach to the film emphasizes the harsh realities of the time, creating a raw and immersive atmosphere. The film’s portrayal of rural Virginia and its depiction of moonshine production are grounded in historical detail, adding authenticity to the narrative.
The cinematography, by Roger Deakins, enhances the film’s visual style with its evocative and atmospheric imagery. Deakins’ use of natural light, earthy color palettes, and sweeping landscape shots captures the film’s rural setting and adds to the sense of realism. The cinematography effectively conveys the mood and tone of the story, from the tension of violent confrontations to the quiet moments of reflection.
The film’s pacing is well-managed, balancing intense action sequences with character-driven drama. The combination of strong direction and cinematography creates a compelling and immersive experience, drawing viewers into the world of the Bondurant brothers.
Themes and Legacy: Crime, Loyalty, and Survival
Lawless explores themes of crime, loyalty, and survival in a lawless era. The film’s portrayal of Prohibition-era moonshiners and their struggles against both legal and criminal threats reflects the broader themes of power, resistance, and personal integrity.
The dynamic between the Bondurant brothers highlights the importance of family and loyalty, as they navigate the dangers and challenges posed by their adversaries. The film also delves into the moral complexities of their criminal activities, offering a nuanced view of their motivations and actions.
The film’s legacy is marked by its strong performances, authentic portrayal of historical events, and its blend of crime drama and character study. Lawless stands out as a compelling and well-crafted entry in the crime genre, offering a gripping and immersive experience for viewers.
Where to Watch Lawless Online
For those interested in watching Lawless, the film is available on various streaming platforms and rental services:
Streaming Services
- Amazon Prime Video: Lawless can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video, available as part of a subscription or for rental/purchase.
- Hulu: The film may also be available on Hulu, depending on regional licensing and availability.
Rental/Purchase Streaming Services
- Apple iTunes: The film is available for rent or purchase on Apple iTunes, providing viewers with the option to watch on Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies: Google Play Movies offers Lawless for rental or purchase, making it easy to stream on various devices.
- Vudu: Vudu provides options to rent or buy the film, known for its high-quality streaming and extensive film catalog.
- YouTube Movies: The film is also available on YouTube Movies for rental or purchase, allowing for easy streaming through the YouTube platform.
Final Thoughts: A Gripping Crime Drama
Lawless is a compelling crime drama that offers a gritty and authentic portrayal of the Prohibition era. With strong performances from its ensemble cast, effective direction by John Hillcoat, and evocative cinematography by Roger Deakins, the film provides a gripping and immersive experience.
The film’s exploration of themes related to crime, loyalty, and survival adds depth to its narrative, making it a notable entry in the crime genre. For fans of historical dramas and crime stories, Lawless offers a powerful and engaging depiction of a turbulent and fascinating period in American history.
