Dragged Across Concrete

Dragged Across Concrete is a 2018 American neo-noir crime thriller film directed by S. Craig Zahler. It features a star-studded cast including Mel Gibson, Vince Vaughn, and Tory Kittles. The film tells the story of two police detectives who are suspended after a video of their strong-arm tactics goes viral. Desperate for money, they decide to rob a group of criminals who are planning a heist. However, things do not go as planned, and they find themselves in the middle of a dangerous situation.

The movie is a great example of a film noir, a genre of movies that originated in the 1940s and 50s. Film noir is known for its use of low-key lighting, shadowy cinematography, and cynical, fatalistic narratives that explore the darker side of human nature. Dragged Across Concrete perfectly captures the essence of film noir, and here are some reasons why.

Firstly, the film’s visual style is a nod to the classic film noirs of the past. The movie is shot in a way that highlights the shadows and darkness of the environment, creating an atmosphere of tension and unease. The lighting is often dim, casting the characters’ faces in deep shadows, and adding to the sense of danger and unpredictability.

Secondly, the film’s plot is typical of the film noir genre. It is a crime story that involves morally ambiguous characters, violent crime, and an undercurrent of betrayal and deception. The characters are complex and flawed, and their actions have severe consequences. The film’s tone is bleak and cynical, emphasizing the idea that in this world, there are no easy choices and that everyone is compromised in some way.

Thirdly, the film’s characters are well-developed and expertly acted. Mel Gibson and Vince Vaughn give standout performances as the two detectives who are willing to bend the law to achieve their goals. Their characters are flawed, but they are not caricatures of corrupt cops. Instead, they are fully realized individuals with their own motivations and personalities.

Finally, the film’s themes are relevant and thought-provoking. The movie explores issues such as police brutality, racial tension, and income inequality. The characters’ actions are influenced by these issues, and the film offers a commentary on the state of society. The movie does not provide easy answers, and it invites the audience to think about these issues and the complexities that surround them.

Dragged Across Concrete is a great film noir that captures the essence of the genre. It is visually stunning, with a well-crafted plot and complex characters. The film’s themes are relevant and thought-provoking, making it a movie that lingers in the viewer’s mind long after the credits roll. If you are a fan of film noir or crime thrillers, this movie is a must-see.