Between commercial and independent films Hollywood produces, the 'indie' film is typically the better acted, written and directed film head and shoulders above the commercial films. Where commercial films usually depend on making money and as much as they can, indie films center more on the art; the quality of the film. So after seeing :The Peanut Butter Falcon", this concept still holds true.
This is an adventure story set in the world of a modern Mark Twain in the Outer Banks of North Carolina that begins when Zak (Zack Gottsagen), a 22 year-old young man with Down Syndrome runs away from a nursing home where he lives to chase his dream of becoming a professional wrestler and attending the wrestling school of The Salt Water Redneck, headed up by Clint (Thomas Haden Church). Through circumstances beyond their control Tyler (Shia LaBeouf), a 32 year-old man who is a small time outlaw on the run, becomes Zak's unlikely and reluctant coach and ally. Together, they wind through deltas, elude capture, drink whisky, find God, catch fish and convince Eleanor (Dakota Johnson), a 28 year-old woman who is a kind nursing home employee, with a story of her own ,to join them on their journey.
Others to round out the cast are John Hawkes as Duncan, Bruce Dern as Carl, Jon Bernthal as Mark, Yelawolf as Ratboy, Jake Roberts as Sam and Mick Foley as Jacob.
This was brilliantly written and directed by Tyler Nilson and Mike Schwartz (shorts and documentary shorts). It is truly difficult to believe that this is these filmmakers' first feature film considering the incredible quality of both the writing and directing. Obviously producing the amount of shorts they've created has served them well. The pacing and staging in this was delineated well as was the emotions these actors exuded in their performances. LaBeouf certainly has been attempting to reinvent himself and with this, he has proven that he is the actor that I've always known him to be. Even Gottsagen as Zak, being introduced to films simply shined as this character with Down Syndrome and his ability to interact with LaBeouf's Tyler which is pure genius directing. The story was a tight, concise, cohesive script that flowed effortlessly. It is so rare that one can find a story that is as fresh and original as this is all with amazing acting while being incredibly entertaining as well. Surely, when these filmmakers write and direct another project, and they will, I will be there in the front row relishing in a fine story. These guys are absolute naturals and they need more work so we, the audience, can be better for it. Considering the quality of a handful of films so far this year, this has got to be one of the best films of the year.
What is so unfortunate is that this being an indie film, the advertising of it is minimal as compared to its commercial counterparts. These are the films that should be rewarded with accolades and profits. Although they may receive praise, the profits never seem to match. I beseech you to go see this film--it's funny, dramatic, well crafted and entertaining that will give you a great feeling and will stay with you once you exit the theater.
Out of 4 Stars: 4 Rated: PG-13 97mins.
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