LaRoy, Texas hits the mark as a quirky crime caper, just falling short of matching the quality of the films and filmmakers it emulates.
The story follows Ray (John Magaro), a down-and-out every-man who discovers his wife is cheating on him and decides to end his life. However, his plans take a drastic turn when a stranger mistakes him for a low-rent hitman and hands him an envelope of cash. Seizing the opportunity, Ray decides to play along and takes on the job, dragging his private investigator friend, Skip (Steve Zahn) into the chaotic situation. Together, they must navigate a web of deceit, blackmail, and murder as they try to outsmart the real hitman and make it out alive.
The charm of LaRoy, Texas lies in its characters. The performances are excellent, with each actor bringing a unique flavour to their role. The characters manage to be likeable despite their somewhat despicable actions, a balance that is difficult to achieve but well executed here. Zahn stands out, reminding audiences of his underrated value. Likewise, Dylan Baker is ice-cold as the film’s calculated hit-man, adding some gravitas to the occasionally comical characterisations.
The film is full of dark humour, which is cleverly woven into the plot, providing moments of levity amidst the heavier themes of crime and betrayal. The humour is reminiscent of the kind you’d find in classic 90s crime capers, such as the Coen Brothers’ classic Fargo, adding a nostalgic touch that will appeal to fans of the genre.
The film’s cinematography captures the gritty, offbeat atmosphere of the town of LaRoy and its people, with a nod to the stylistic choices of the aforementioned Coens and Tarantino. The setting of a small Texas town adds to the film’s quirky charm, providing a backdrop that feels familiar.
Despite its strengths, LaRoy, Texas does have shortcomings. It doesn’t have the most original story and there are moments where the reliance on twists and turns feels a bit overdone. The filmmakers clearly draw inspiration from the greats, but the film falls just short of capturing the same level of brilliance. It’s a fun ride, but seasoned fans of the genre might find themselves longing for the depth and ingenuity of the classics.
In conclusion, LaRoy, Texas is an enjoyable watch for those wanting a good crime caper with a dash of dark humour. It’s a film that feels like a hidden gem from the 90s, something you might stumble upon in the specials section of a video store and find yourself pleasantly surprised by.
Fun Fact:
This is director Shane Atkinson’s directorial debut.
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