Red

Revenge, and the availability of firearms in America, are the topics of a thoughtful allegory in this independent film that wisely leans on the capable shoulders of Brian Cox as its protagonist. Set in a timeless rural part of Portland—although appropriately filmed largely in Fillmore, California—the story follows general store owner and widower Avery Ludlow (Cox) whose dog Red is shot by three local teenage thugs as he fishes with his loyal dog beside him. Avery’s slowburn anger gradually rises after he tracks down the murderer’s father to politely request an admission and apology from the boy that is not forthcoming. The film is based on Jack Ketchum’s novel, and directors Trygve Allister Diesen and Lucky McKee keep the material condensed on small scale in order to project its wider implications. "Red" is a powerful independent movie deserving of more attention than it will likely receive.

Rated R, 95 mins. (B+) (Four Stars)