Red State

Two things allowed me to appreciate this film.

1. Cop Out– This is one of the worst movies ever made and Kevin Smith directed it. Any film Smith made after this would seem great by comparison.

2. Kevin Smith is a likable guy. I listen to his Smodcast and enjoy all of his commentaries and live appearances. Kevin told a story about a screening he did for Clerks. Smith previewed the movie, then he and producer Scott Mosier discussed the film afterward. After everything Smith overheard a person say “I didn’t like the movie but Smith is a cool guy.”

I’ve listened to Smith talk about Red State a lot. I knew everything about it before I watched it.  I know it is a hybrid flick about a crazy religious group based on the Phelps family. It was made on a shoestring budget of four million and Smith promoted it himself.

What I like is that he tried something different. This still is not a complete film but you can tell a lot of love went into it. The cinematography is much better than his latest flicks and he coaxes some excellent performances.

I’m not saying this is a great film or one that the mainstream audience will enjoy. However, I was glad to have finally watched it. This is a Kevin Smith I didn’t think existed after Cop Out. That movie was so safe and boring. Red State is far from boring.

Expect the word F*^* to be used 700 times, expect Michael Parks preaching craziness for a ten minute scene, Expect blood and little bit of torture.

The best part of  the film is the ending. I won’t ruin the surprise but it is hilarious and adds welcome levity to a dark subject.  

Watch this movie when it comes out on DVD later this month. Let me know what you think. I’d love to hear other peoples opinions.