Indie Gems: Ain't Them Bodies Saints

Love...

 

When we meet Bob and Ruth (Casey Affleck and Rooney Mara) they obviously just had a disagreement. But their love is stronger than that, and they work it out. Then we find out they've committed a crime, as they are in a standoff with the police, Ruth wounds an officer, Patrick. (Ben Foster) Bob takes the blame and goes to prison while Ruth raises their young daughter alone. Patrick, unaware that Ruth was the one that put the bullet in him has become somewhat of a good friend to her, but when Bob breaks out of prison, Ruth knows all eyes will be on her. Bob will do whatever it takes to get back to them.

 

If films could have a soul, this one would have an old soul. Everything about it feels like a classic western. The music, the dreamy tone, the sometimes mumbling of the cast, it all flows together perfectly. I have to admire Ruth's love for Bob There were times where I was rooting for her to just leave with Patrick, who obviously harbors something for her, and to be happy. But on the other hand, she stuck with Bob until the end, and that was a beautiful thing too. Mara and Affleck are great, but it's Foster who stood out the most to me. His performance was painfully subtle, but that still spoke volumes.

 

There was a short graphic novel released prior to this film to show us a little of Ruth and Bob's past. I for one, would like to see another with the events that follow the film.

 

Grade: A-

 

Memorable Quote: "...are you?" - Patrick (Ben Foster)