The Devil All the Time (2020) Review: A Dark and Gritty Southern Gothic Tale
The Devil All the Time, directed by Antonio Campos and released in 2020, is a psychological thriller that explores themes of violence, faith, and human depravity. Based on the novel by Donald Ray Pollock, the film stars Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, Bill Skarsgård, and Riley Keough, and is known for its intense atmosphere and complex narrative.
Plot Summary
Set in the rural American South, the film unfolds through a series of interlocking stories that revolve around the dark and troubled lives of its characters. The narrative spans from the end of World War II to the early 1960s and delves into the consequences of violence and trauma on individuals and their communities.
The story follows several key characters:
- Arvin Russell (Tom Holland): A young man struggling with the legacy of his father’s violence and his own quest for justice. Arvin is deeply affected by the tragic events in his family’s past and seeks to find a sense of peace in a world filled with corruption and cruelty.
- Reverend Preston Teagardin (Robert Pattinson): A manipulative and corrupt preacher who preys on vulnerable individuals while hiding his own dark secrets. His actions have far-reaching consequences for the people around him.
- Willard Russell (Bill Skarsgård): Arvin’s father, whose traumatic experiences in World War II lead him down a path of self-destruction and violence, impacting his family’s fate.
- Charlotte (Riley Keough): A troubled woman who, along with her husband, engages in a series of criminal acts that intertwine with the lives of the other characters.
The film explores how these characters’ lives intersect in a series of violent and morally complex events, ultimately revealing the deep-seated darkness that pervades their world.
Performances
- Tom Holland as Arvin Russell: Holland delivers a compelling performance as Arvin, showcasing his ability to convey the character’s internal struggle and determination. His portrayal adds emotional depth to the film and enhances its dramatic impact.
- Robert Pattinson as Reverend Preston Teagardin: Pattinson offers a haunting and unsettling performance as the corrupt preacher, capturing the character’s duplicity and menace. His portrayal stands out for its intensity and complexity.
- Bill Skarsgård as Willard Russell: Skarsgård brings a sense of gravitas and vulnerability to his role as Willard, highlighting the character’s internal conflict and tragic trajectory.
- Riley Keough as Charlotte: Keough’s performance as Charlotte is marked by its rawness and emotional intensity, contributing to the film’s exploration of desperation and moral ambiguity.
Direction and Script
Antonio Campos’s direction is characterized by its dark and atmospheric tone, effectively capturing the grim and unsettling nature of the story. The screenplay, adapted by Campos and Paulo Campos from Donald Ray Pollock’s novel, weaves together multiple narratives with a focus on character development and thematic depth. The film’s exploration of violence, faith, and human nature is both thought-provoking and disturbing.
Cinematography and Style
The cinematography by Lol Crawley enhances the film’s moody and oppressive atmosphere, using a mix of stark visuals and subdued colors to create a sense of dread and foreboding. The film’s visual style complements its dark themes and complex narrative, immersing viewers in its Southern Gothic setting.
Critical Reception
The Devil All the Time received generally positive reviews for its performances, direction, and atmospheric storytelling. Critics praised the film for its strong ensemble cast and its ability to tackle difficult and provocative themes. However, some found the film’s tone to be excessively bleak and its narrative challenging to follow. Overall, it was recognized for its ambitious and intense portrayal of moral and existential struggles.
Where to Watch “The Devil All the Time” Online
For those interested in watching The Devil All the Time, the film is available on several streaming platforms:
Streaming Services
- Netflix: The Devil All the Time is available for streaming on Netflix, as it was released directly on the platform.
Rental and Purchase Options
Since the film is a Netflix original, it is not available for rental or purchase on other platforms. It can only be accessed via Netflix’s streaming service.
Conclusion
The Devil All the Time is a dark and gripping psychological thriller that offers a profound exploration of violence, faith, and human nature. With standout performances from Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, and Bill Skarsgård, and Antonio Campos’s skillful direction, the film provides a compelling and intense viewing experience. Its complex narrative and atmospheric style make it a notable entry in the genre of Southern Gothic and psychological drama.
