Where to watch Gunslingers
2 Stars
In a town named Redemption, reformed gunslinger Keller and mad genius Ben are guided by spiritual leader Jericho towards vindication. While confronting their violent histories, their newfound peace is challenged by violence and re…
Gunslingers is a film with a great story concept, a very capable cast, some nice location photography, and a few decent action scenes. Unfortunately, it also features some stilted performances, a plot that is illogical, and a runtime that feels stretched out. Nicolas Cage, one of my favorite actors, turns in one of his wildest acting efforts to date. The Oscar winner’s bizarre choice to play his character with a raspy whispering tone is peculiar but compelling. When, late in the film, Cage’s Bible-clutching character drops an F-bomb, it provides the film with a much-needed moment of comic relief.
Brian Skiba does a good job handling his actors and keeps the film moving along; the staging of a long scene in the first act set around a table in a bar displays the director’s and actors’ strengths. The rushed feel of the opening scenes is off-putting and reveals the low-level production values immediately. However, the central idea, a town full of former outlaws living under false identities, is so juicy that I wish more could have been done with the concept. As is, Gunslingers should be seen for the committed performances, particularly Cage, Dorff, and Jeremy Kent Jackson.
Directed by: Brian Skiba
Written by: Brian Skiba
Starring: Stephen Dorff, Heather Graham, Nicolas Cage