Setting a film in primarily one location has long been a method to focus your story on characters and their interactions. Films like The Thing and Reservoir Dogs have allowed for the script to do the talking with dialogue that keeps us gripped throughout. Written and directed by Henry Dunham, The Standoff at Sparrow Creek is a new release that successfully displays the positives of small-scale cinema.
Set directly after a mass shooting at a policeman’s funeral, The Standoff at Sparrow Creek positions us in the headquarters of a militia group as the men within it discover that the shooter is one of their own. The film is led by James Badge Dale as ex-cop Gannon, who must interrogate his fellow members in order to discover the truth and stop the situation from escalating. Dale is supported by Brian Geraghty, Patrick Fischler, Happy Anderson, Robert Aramayo, Gene Jones and Chris Mulkey.
Taking place in one building for the majority of the movie, the story is a mystery that unfolds for the duration of the 90 minutes run time. It does so quite effectively as we jump from conversation to conversation in a manner that systematically feeds us new information just when we think it is going a certain direction. We question who the shooter is until the very end, and are taken on an intriguing path that delves into topics such as the dark side of the justice system and the psychology behind gun culture. Each step of this plot is facilitated by the solid performances of the main cast.
James Badge Dale does a fine job as the hardened leading man of the picture. Alongside him, the other actors are able to keep us guessing through the twists and turns of the story. Most notably, Happy Anderson conveys the raw emotion of his characters tragic past, with only a few scenes. Gene Jones is also allowed to shine when given the chance, quietly communicating a story from his past during a particularly memorable monologue.
On a technical level, the film is directed rather well by the first-time director Henry Dunham. Beyond this, the cinematography is effective as the camera allows us to be right there with each of the militiamen. There must be a mention for the use of lighting during the closing moments of the film as a certain scene is shot quite beautifully no matter its circumstances. The movie feels very real, perhaps mainly due to the lack of score. There are no music stings or swells to tell us how to feel. Instead, it is the writing that keeps us on a focused path towards the conclusion.
As is the case most of the time, this is in no way a perfect film. The story is well told for the most part but there are a few clunky moments of exposition. Furthermore, there are some plot points that do not make complete sense and one or two of the characters are not given the time that a mystery such as this needs. There is a feeling that this script could have been a little tighter, ironing out these issues and taking the picture to the next level.
The Standoff at Sparrow Creek is a solid, highly enjoyable movie. It is able to deliver a quality small-scale plot, filled with serviceable characters. It is a perfect example of independent cinema done well. With a few faults along the way, this is a very good film that is certainly worth a watch.