The Film:
In the vast landscape of crime thrillers, Carl Franklin’s One False Move is a hidden gem, an intricately woven knot of suspense, drama, and genuine human emotion. Released to theaters in 1991 after initially set to debut on television, this film is a testament to the power of storytelling, good word of mouth, and the brilliance that often goes unnoticed in cinema.
From the opening scene, Franklin crafts a tense and gripping atmosphere. The film’s narrative is a delicate dance between crime and redemption, seamlessly intertwining the lives of its characters in a way that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The pacing is deliberate, allowing for character development that transcends the conventional bounds of the genre.
The late Bill Paxton (Titanic) delivers a standout performance as Dale ‘Hurricane’ Dixon, a small-town sheriff thrust into the dark world of crime. Paxton’s portrayal is nuanced and warm, capturing the essence of a man torn between duty and personal demons. It’s a role that showcases his versatility as an actor, bringing depth to a character that could quickly have fallen into clichés.
However, the real star of One False Move is the powerhouse performance by Cynda Williams as Lila. Her portrayal of a complex and conflicted woman adds a layer of authenticity to the film. Williams’ chemistry with Billy Bob Thornton (Whiskey Tango Foxtrot), who co-wrote the screenplay, is palpable, creating moments of genuine emotion that resonate long after the credits roll. I still can’t believe Williams didn’t get showered with awards for her work or use the film as a springboard to other roles that gave her more opportunities to impress.
The cinematography from James L. Carter, bathed in the moody hues of noir, elevates the film’s aesthetic appeal. The use of shadows and light accentuates the moral ambiguity of the characters and their world. The choice of locations, from the quiet simplicity of small-town America to the grit of the big city, adds depth to the film’s visual narrative.
As is the case with the best noirs, the haunting musical score further underscores the characters’ emotional journey. The music becomes a character in itself, heightening the tension and guiding the audience through the twists and turns of the plot. One False Move succeeds as a crime thriller and a poignant exploration of human nature. It delves into themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the consequences of one’s actions. The film’s climax is unexpected and satisfying, a testament to the filmmakers’ commitment to subverting expectations.
Though achieving a certain level of indie cred (definitely leading to its debut on this Criterion 4K), One False Move remains a criminally underrated masterpiece. It’s a film that deserves to be rediscovered and celebrated for its stellar performances, atmospheric storytelling, and timeless exploration of the human condition. In his first feature film, Franklin’s directorial prowess and the exceptional cast make One False Move a must-watch for anyone seeking a cinematic experience that transcends the boundaries of its genre.
The Disc:
For Criterion’s 2023 release of One False Move, the film has been digitally resorted and approved by the director, Carl Franklin.
While no new commentary was recorded, a previous commentary recorded by Franklin for the 1998 DVD release of the film is included on both the 4K disc (it’s only extra) and the Blu-Ray Disc. Franklin is a rare director who makes good use of the commentary track to discuss both the technical aspects of making his film while offering valuable anecdotes about the shooting of it. Once you’ve watched the movie through once, I have a feeling you’ll want to go back and revisit this.
Also included on the Blu-Ray disc is a new extra, a conversation between Franklin and co-star/screenwriter Billy Bob Thornton. The tone here is spirited and offers even more information about the film’s genesis and how it was received upon its release. These interviews can often feel staged and awkwardly forced, but an easy flow between the two makes the half-hour fly by.
The only other extras included are a restored trailer and a booklet, including an essay by author William Boyle. While not as packed with content as other Criterion releases, I find the most important pieces (the restoration and the dialogue between Franklin/Thornton) to outweigh what might be missing.