Red State

Red State is a vexing yet engaging thriller(?) about sex, religion, and politics. Fans of Kevin Smith (Clerks, Mallrats) will wonder why he’s directing a film about three misguided teens, a Fred Phelps-type preacher out to rid the world of gays, and ATF shootout at a compound. While the film looks great, I was never really sure where it was going or what the point was – especially after lead characters started getting their heads shot off. Then there was a crazy climax that too briefly took to a really fascinating turn, only to come crashing down seconds later in the abrupt and unsatisfying finish. John Goodman is exceptional as is the crazed preacher, played by Michael Parks.