Watch Whelm

Whelm is a period drama and a slow burn thriller that takes place in the 1920s in rural Indiana. The movie is a debut for director Skyler Lawson and a co-writing venture with his wife, Camille. The movie follows the journey of two young men, Harry and Max, who set out to rob a corrupt banker, Archer, and his associates. The story is set against the backdrop of the prohibition era, where the illegal trade of alcohol was rampant, and farmers and laborers were struggling to make ends meet.

The movie opens with Harry and Max arriving in the small town of Robin Hood. The town has a rustic look, and life appears to be at a standstill. The two men have a brief encounter with Archer, who is quick to recognize their intentions but fails to stop them. As the story unfolds, the viewers are introduced to the town's diverse characters, including a local reporter, Nora, who takes an interest in the two men's presence.

While the robbery seems to be the primary motive for the two men, Harry and Max are not your average notorious outlaws. They have an agenda and a past that they are trying to outrun. In a series of well-crafted scenes, we get to know their characters, their fears, and their intentions. The duo's relationship is built on loyalty, trust, and fear, which all combine to create an uneasy bond that is tested throughout the movie.

As the two men prepare for the heist, the tension builds up, and it becomes apparent that things might not go as planned. The town's civilians have their agenda, and they won't let a couple of strangers interfere with their objectives. Nora becomes a significant player in the unfolding drama, as she uncovers the mysterious past of Harry and Max and tries to unravel their plans.

The climax of the movie is a thrilling chase sequence that brings together all the complex characters and their motives. The chase sees Harry and Max fight against all odds to escape the town and their past. The movie ends on a bittersweet note that leaves the viewers with a sense of closure but also a desire to know more about the characters.

The movie's strength lies in its ability to tell a story that is both suspenseful and emotionally charged. The characters are well developed, and their stories are compelling. Francesca Anderson delivers a standout performance as Nora, the curious reporter who becomes a catalyst for the events that unfold. Her character's arc features some of the movie's most memorable scenes as she uncovers the secrets that Harry and Max are trying to conceal.

The movie's cinematography is another highlight, with the picturesque locations capturing the rustic beauty of rural Indiana. The muted color palette adds to the bleakness of the era, and the attention to detail in the set design is impressive. The movie's score also deserves a mention for its haunting melodies, which elevate the mood and atmosphere of the movie.

In conclusion, Whelm is a well-crafted thriller that takes the viewers on a journey back in time. The movie's slow pace might not appeal to everyone, but for those who appreciate a well-written story, it is a must-watch. The movie's themes of loyalty, betrayal, and redemption are universal and resonate with audiences of all ages. Skyler Lawson has created a promising debut that demonstrates his talent for storytelling, and we look forward to seeing his future works.

Whelm is a 2021 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 56 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 3.8.