Blood Simple review

After receiving positive feedback about my film review of Public Enemies I thought I would give it another go. I am a fan of the Coen brothers. They have a unique way of telling a story and this is evident in their debut film Blood Simple (1984). It is written by both but Joel directs and Ethan produces - does anyone know what a producer actually does? Anyway, the story is set in Texas and it is about the intricate chain of events started by a bar tender having an affair with his boss's wife. Deceit and double crosses ensue. It's not a fast paced thriller, it's a slow burner and takes its time to build tension and atmosphere. The cinematography is quite unusual at times, typical of the Coen brothers, and gives the film a very dark atmosphere, its subject matter and style is almost Film Noir. Thanks to skillful direction the film grows in tension, the storyline has enough twists to keep the viewer engaged and by the end it becomes quite gripping. The cast are excellent, especially M. Emmet Walsh as the sinister, slimy private detective. It's not their best film, it's like a rawer, less polished version of No Country For Old Men, but I enjoyed it and it is well worth watching, especially if you are a fan of the Coen brothers. 7 out of 10.