Watch Joe
- R
- 2014
- 1 hr 57 min
-
6.8 (51,309)
Joe is a 2013 American drama film directed by David Gordon Green and starring Nicolas Cage, Tye Sheridan, and Gary Poulter. The movie is based on the novel of the same name by Larry Brown. The story takes place in rural Texas, where Joe (Nicolas Cage) is a hard-working and rough around the edges ex-con, who runs a small crew that poisons trees in order to clear land for lumber. In this world, Joe meets a young boy named Gary (Tye Sheridan), who is seeking work and finding escape from his abusive father, Wade (Gary Poulter).
As Joe attempts to guide Gary and keep him out of trouble, he is also faced with his own struggles in trying to keep his crew in check, while dealing with his own inner demons. The story follows Joe and Gary as they build a bond that is both endearing and fraught with danger.
Throughout the film, the stark and gritty landscape is brought to life by the cinematography of Tim Orr, who captures the beauty and the ugliness of the small Texas town. The film's raw and unvarnished style, combined with its powerful performances and heartbreaking story bring an authenticity and emotional depth that is riveting to watch.
The acting in the movie is phenomenal, with Nicolas Cage delivering one of his most nuanced and understated performances in years. Tye Sheridan, who was only 16 at the time of filming, delivers a performance that is both heartbreaking and inspiring. It's a testament to his talent that he holds his own alongside Cage, who is known for his powerful and often larger-than-life performances.
Gary Poulter, a homeless man who was discovered by the director while panhandling, delivers a haunting and unforgettable performance as Wade, Gary's abusive father. Poulter was a non-actor who tragically passed away shortly after the film was completed, and this only adds to the poignancy of his performance.
The film deals with difficult themes such as poverty, abuse, violence, and addiction, but it does so with a sense of compassion and empathy. It's a movie about people who are struggling to survive in a world that is often cruel and unforgiving, but at its core, it's a movie about hope and redemption.
The film's soundtrack, which features original music by composer David Wingo, adds another layer of depth to the movie. The music is haunting and atmospheric, and it perfectly captures the mood and tone of the film.
In conclusion, Joe is a remarkable film that showcases the talents of its actors, director, and crew. It's a movie that is both gritty and beautiful, and it tells a story that is both heartbreaking and uplifting. It's a must-see for anyone who enjoys powerful and thought-provoking cinema.
Joe is a 2014 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 57 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8 and a MetaScore of 74.