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"Vengeance" is a 2022 American dark comedy thriller directed by and starring B.J. Novak, who is widely known for his role in the acclaimed television series "The Office." The film marks Novak's directorial debut and showcases his versatility as he steps into the role of both lead actor and screenwriter, presenting a unique tale that weaves together elements of humor, mystery, and social commentary.

The story follows Ben Manalowitz, an up-and-coming New York-based writer and podcaster, played by B.J. Novak, who embodies the quintessential urbanite — witty, detached, and always on the prowl for captivating content that could boost his career. Ben's life takes an unexpected turn when he receives a phone call from the heart of rural West Texas. It's news that his supposed girlfriend, Abilene Shaw, has died suddenly. Despite their brief and casual relationship, the Shaw family insists that Ben attend the funeral, mistaking him as a profoundly committed partner to Abilene.

Arriving in Texas, Ben is a fish out of water, plunged into an alien landscape of cowboy boots, country music, and an array of colorful local personalities. Chief among these are Abilene's brother, Ty Shaw, played by Boyd Holbrook, who stands out with his rugged charm and intense belief in family. Lio Tipton also contributes to the dynamic cast, adding to the intriguing web of relationships Ben must navigate.

While deeply out of place, Ben becomes fascinated by the circumstances surrounding Abilene's demise. Her family and friends are convinced that her death was no accident, but rather the result of foul play. Sensing an opportunity, Ben decides to stay in Texas and investigate the case, envisioning a gripping true-crime podcast that might just make him a star. He begins to dig deeper into the life of the woman he barely knew, interviewing locals and piecing together the events that may have led to Abilene's untimely death.

As he delves into the investigation, Ben's preconceived notions of the small-town folks begin to shift. He encounters a tapestry of interwoven lives, each with their own secrets and perspectives. The story expertly balances humor with suspense as Ben finds himself entrenched in the local customs, bonding with Abilene's family, and even developing a certain affection for the straightforward, no-nonsense approach of the town’s inhabitants. The more he learns, the more Ben's cynical outlook is challenged, leading him to question not only the nature of justice but also the very purpose of his own storytelling ambitions.

"Vengeance" deftly handles themes of cultural divide, examining the stark contrasts between urban and rural American lifestyles. Novak's script highlights the assumptions and misunderstandings that often plague our perceptions of one another, all while maintaining a delicate blend of levity and tension. The film challenges the audience to reflect on the assumptions they bring into the theater and offers a poignant reminder that at the heart of every story lies the undeniable complexity of the human experience.

Stepping behind the camera, B.J. Novak crafts a narrative that is both engaging and insightful, displaying a sharp eye for character development and timing. The film benefits from a strong supporting cast who bring authenticity and depth to their roles, making the world of "Vengeance" feel lived-in and real. The cinematography captures the sprawling vistas of Texas as well as the intimate, dusty corners of its dive bars and diners, immersing the viewer in a setting that is an essential character in itself.

As a mystery, "Vengeance" keeps viewers guessing with its twists and turns, allowing the suspense to build naturally without resorting to cheap thrills. Its social commentary is woven through the narrative, never overpowering the central story but rather providing food for thought as the credits roll. With a finely tuned balance between dark humor and drama, "Vengeance" succeeds in being thought-provoking without taking itself too seriously, and in that lies its real strength.

Overall, "Vengeance" is a confident first outing for Novak as a director, showcasing his talent for creating a multilayered story that is both entertaining and meaningful. Audiences will find themselves laughing, pondering, and potentially re-examining their own biases. It's a modern tale that resonates with contemporary issues, making it a timely contribution to the genre and an intriguing watch for those who like their comedies served with a side of existential contemplation.

Vengeance is a 2022 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 47 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 65.