Finestkind: A Gritty, Heartfelt Journey
I recently watched Finestkind (2023), a crime drama directed by Brian Helgeland, and it hooked me with its raw emotion and intense family dynamics. The film follows Charlie (Toby Wallace), a young man who joins his estranged brother Tom (Tommy Lee Jones) on a fishing boat in New Bedford, Massachusetts, only to get entangled in a dangerous criminal underworld. The story blends gritty realism with themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and redemption, set against the harsh backdrop of the fishing industry. I loved how the movie balanced action with deep character moments, making it a gripping watch from start to finish. It’s a film that stayed with me, both for its heart and its tension.
The cinematography in Finestkind is striking, capturing the rugged beauty of the New England coast. Shot by Crille Forsberg, the film uses muted, cold tones to reflect the tough life of fishermen, with sweeping shots of the ocean that feel both majestic and unforgiving. I was particularly drawn to the tight, handheld camera work during intense scenes, like the boat chases, which made me feel right in the middle of the action. The urban settings, like dive bars and docks, are gritty and lived-in, adding authenticity. Every frame feels purposeful, pulling you deeper into the characters’ world.
The storyline is a standout, weaving a tight narrative that kept me on edge. It starts as a family drama, exploring Charlie’s attempt to connect with his rough-around-the-edges brother, but it quickly spirals into a high-stakes crime thriller involving drug deals and betrayal. I appreciated how the plot balances personal stakes—like the brothers’ fractured relationship—with larger conflicts, never feeling overblown. The pacing is spot-on, with each twist building tension naturally. My only gripe is that some side characters’ arcs felt slightly rushed, but the core story of family and survival hit all the right notes.
The acting in Finestkind is phenomenal, elevating the film to another level. Toby Wallace brings a fresh-faced earnestness to Charlie, making his journey from naive outsider to hardened survivor believable, and I felt every ounce of his emotional growth. Tommy Lee Jones, as Tom, is gruff and commanding, yet his subtle moments of vulnerability stole the show for me. Jenna Ortega, playing Mabel, adds a fierce edge, and I was impressed by how she held her own against the veterans. The ensemble, including Tim Daly, feels authentic, like real people caught in a tough world. Their performances made me care deeply about their fates.
Overall, Finestkind is a film I thoroughly enjoyed for its blend of heart, grit, and suspense. The cinematography paints a vivid picture of the coastal life, the storyline keeps you hooked with its mix of drama and danger, and the acting is top-notch, with Wallace and Jones delivering unforgettable performances. It’s a movie that feels both intimate and epic, perfect for anyone who loves a good crime drama with soul. I’d happily rewatch it to catch the nuances I might have missed. It’s a gem that deserves more attention.
