James Badge Dale gives standout performance.
If you like 90's Oozarks movies with realistic acting of the savage, cutthroat peoples of these places, then you will like this movie. Where families rule, and not the Law. Similar to Winter's Bone.
While Billy Magnussen gives a solid performance (much more serious than hes used to), its James Badge Dale that stands out. His Oscar worthy performance of charisma and intimidation will make you forget he was "dressed to invade Poland" in The Departed. He sure has come a long way since then. And while his performance will no doubt be overlooked, Im really glad I got to see it. Havent seen a performance like that from a newer movie in quite some time. I truely felt fear while his character was on the screen, and thats so rare for me while watching a movie.
The directing was great too Its shot really well, which is what made me want to watch it in the first place. It's a tad predictable, but I didn't mind. I loved the subtle foreshadowing throughout the movie as well.
While Violent Ends does feel like its missing that special something to make it truly stand out, its a very solid movie, and I highly recommend it if you like these types of movies. For General Audiences and todays ADHD kids.... not so much.
I'm very glad I watched it. Years ago, I wouldve rated this a solid 7.5/10, but in terms of todays awful movies, Ima bump it up to a 9/10.
While Billy Magnussen gives a solid performance (much more serious than hes used to), its James Badge Dale that stands out. His Oscar worthy performance of charisma and intimidation will make you forget he was "dressed to invade Poland" in The Departed. He sure has come a long way since then. And while his performance will no doubt be overlooked, Im really glad I got to see it. Havent seen a performance like that from a newer movie in quite some time. I truely felt fear while his character was on the screen, and thats so rare for me while watching a movie.
The directing was great too Its shot really well, which is what made me want to watch it in the first place. It's a tad predictable, but I didn't mind. I loved the subtle foreshadowing throughout the movie as well.
While Violent Ends does feel like its missing that special something to make it truly stand out, its a very solid movie, and I highly recommend it if you like these types of movies. For General Audiences and todays ADHD kids.... not so much.
I'm very glad I watched it. Years ago, I wouldve rated this a solid 7.5/10, but in terms of todays awful movies, Ima bump it up to a 9/10.
- scorch429
- Nov 18, 2025