Review of Aaron Paul's HELLION - Sundance '14

Hellion is an intense drama about a father trying to raise two young boys by himself after his wife passes away. It's not easy for him, because one of them is a hellion and loves to get into trouble. The dad is having a hard time trying to keep himself together, as he drinks a lot and works, leaving his kids home alone a lot to take care of themselves. This doesn't go over very well when social services shows up to take a look at the situation. This sets in motion some really rough events that the family will have to face.

This really was a great movie, it's not for everyone, but the story, script, direction, and action were all fantastic. It's just deals with some very heavy subject matter. Breaking Bad's Aaron Paul plays the father, and he gives an awesome performance. The guy is so talented, and if Need For Speed doesn't kill his career, he's going to be an incredibly successful actor. It was strange seeing him in an older father-type role like this, but it obviously worked. The movie also starred Juliette Lewis and Josh Wiggins, who gave a hell of a performance as as the lead kid character, Jacob.

The movie was wonderfully written and directed by Kat Candler, and she has a very good way of creating some hard and intense family drama. The movie really has a good way of allowing the audience feel the hurt and pain that the characters go through. It's actually based on a short film she made back in 2012.

I'd recommend seeing the movie, especially if you're a fan of Paul's work. This movie really shows his range as an actor. I'm pretty sure it will at least get a limited release in theaters and on VOD.

The Synopsis:

Thirteen-year-old Jacob is spiraling out of control. The motocross-obsessed teenager’s delinquent behavior pushes his family to the brink of collapse. All hell breaks loose when Jacob enlists his younger brother, Wes, as a partner in crime. Still reeling from his wife’s death, Jacob’s dad, Hollis, has all but abandoned his sons. When Child Protective Services removes Wes to live with his Aunt Pam, Hollis and Jacob are forced to face their culpability as they strive to bring Wes home. Hellion is set in southeastern Texas where the flames and lights of refineries frame the skyline and create a haunting backdrop for this fractured family of motherless men. 

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