Watch The Motel Life
- R
- 2013
- 1 hr 25 min
-
5.9 (3,818)
The Motel Life is a 2012 drama film directed by Alan and Gabriel Polsky. It is adapted from a novel with the same name written by Willy Vlautin. The film stars Emile Hirsch and Stephen Dorff in the lead roles with Doc Divecchio in a supporting role. Set in Reno, Nevada, the movie follows the lives of two brothers, Frank and Jerry Lee Flannigan. The brothers are close and share a tragic past. They lost their parents when they were young and have lived their lives in motels ever since. Frank has been supporting them by working odd jobs, while Jerry is a failed artist and an alcoholic.
The brothers' lives take a turn for the worse when Jerry accidentally kills a boy while driving under the influence. Desperate to avoid the authorities, the brothers flee the scene and Frank advises Jerry to leave town. Frank, left behind in Reno, spends his time desperately trying to make ends meet while dealing with the guilt of abandoning his brother.
The film is a character study of the two brothers and their broken lives. Emile Hirsch and Stephen Dorff give brilliant performances as the Flannigan brothers. Hirsch's portrayal of Frank is vulnerable and emotional while Dorff's performance as Jerry Lee is raw and intense. The two actors have a great chemistry that captures the bond between the brothers.
The Motel Life is a dark and gritty film that delves into the themes of loss, guilt, and redemption. It is a haunting portrayal of two brothers struggling to cope with the hardships of life. The film is beautifully shot and captures the stark reality of life in Reno. The motel settings add to the overall mood of the movie, with their dimly lit rooms and peeling wallpaper.
The supporting cast also delivers strong performances. Doc Divecchio, who plays the Flannigan brothers' friend Tommy, brings a sense of levity to the film. Kris Kristofferson, who appears in a small role, is memorable as a wise old man who advises the brothers.
The Motel Life is not a movie for everyone. It is a slow-paced, character-driven film that can be quite somber in tone. However, for those who appreciate thoughtful and emotive storytelling, the movie is a gem. It is a powerful portrait of brotherhood and the consequences of our actions.
In conclusion, The Motel Life is a well-crafted drama that showcases the talents of its cast and crew. It is a movie that will leave an impression on viewers long after the credits roll. It is a must-watch for fans of character-driven storytelling and those who appreciate nuanced performances.
The Motel Life is a 2013 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9 and a MetaScore of 61.