RED STATE (Theatrical Release USA 2011)

Ben Meyers’ rating: 3.9|5.0 Starsììì

Red State—controversial and difficult to watch—examines a cult religious leader and the congregation that follows him. Michael Parks’ role of a pastor who leads his congregation into ritual murder is very well acted. John Goodman, who plays the ATF Agent sent to forcibly shut the church down, also ably acts his part with believability and strength. The movie can serve as education into the world of followers versus leaders, the dangers of following extreme viewpoints without respect for law and order, and how charismatic persons can lead people into deadly and dangerous, life-threatening situations. The film performs at a highly realistic level and serves a very mature adult audience.

Film Poster Courtesy of Wikipedia

Storyline

Pastor Abin Cooper (Michael Parks) leads his congregation into ritual killing of homosexuals.

Additional Thanks

Thank you to Director Kevin Smith for directing effort. Thank you to Executive Producers Victor Choy, Jason Clark, Philip Elway, Shea Kammer, Nhaelan McMillan, Elyse Seiden, and Harvey Cohen for making the film possible. Additional characters/cast include: Travis (Michael Angarano), Mrs. Vasquez (Deborah Aquila), Billy Ray (Nicholas Braun), Randy (Ronnie Connell), Dana (Kaylee DeFer), Route 9 Friend (Joey Figueroa), Jarod (Kyle Gallner), Travis’ Mother (Anna Gunn), Deputy Pete (Matt Jones), and Travis’ Father (John Lacy).

Buy a ticket? Yes? No? Maybe?

Maybe. This film is not for the faint of heart and serves the very mature audience.

Video Critique Available Here:

Ben Meyers