Blue Ruin - How slow can you take it?

‘Blue Ruin.’ I’ve checked online and it’s definitely classed as a ‘thriller.’ Now, the word ‘thriller’ will probably conjure up images of high speed car chases and wall-to-wall tension.  Based on that definition, Blue Ruin is definitely NOT a ‘thriller.’ It’s possibly one of the most ‘non-conventional’ thrillers you’re ever going to see.

It’s slow.  Very slow.  In fact, especially near the beginning, there are large portions of the film where people don’t even talk to each other (or even have anyone to talk to!).  We meet out ‘hero.’ A scruffy, borderline vagrant, who finds a killer from his past his back and he sets out to deliver retribution.  I guess it’s more of a ‘revenge’ film, but don’t go thinking of the ‘Death Wish’ saga, or ‘Kill Bill.’ The main difference is the hero himself.  He’s possibly the least ‘hero-looking’ leading man you’re ever likely to see.  He looks like a strong gust of wind would probably knock him over – hardly the sort who’s out for bloodthirsty revenge.

And he doesn’t do much – mainly ask for help and prepare.  That’s mainly why it’s so slow.  I was watching it wondering when something would actually happen.  That may make it sound like I thought it was boring, yet when I checked the clock, practically an hour had passed.

Basically, you’re only going to enjoy the film if you know what you’re getting.  If you’re hoping for a star-studded action-packed blockbuster, you’ll leave sorely disappointed (did I mention there’s barely a recognisable face in the whole film?!).  However, if you’re in the mood for a more subdued little number which knowingly plods along, trying its best to be different, you’ll get your money’s worth here.

7/10 if I woke up on Groundhog Day and had to watch this again, I could live with that