This a sad, but true story of a teenager who went undercover for the FBI in 80s Detroit. His involvement led to even more complex, unfortunate situations. Matthew McConaughey plays his father, a hardscrabble hustler who’s devoted to his son, played with steely reserve by newcomer Richie Merritt. The most outstanding performance is from British actor Bel Powley as his screwed-up sis. This is a dark, gritty story about an unfortunate family and the effects of the War on Drugs. French director Yann Demange has created a grim, hopeless world, infused with authenticity and affection. It’s not often that we see such tragic work, but this one is weirdly compelling.
(3 / 5)