Scott Cooper directs this film with a depressing touch. His script is centered around a good man going through hardship after hardship while trying hold on to the good within him. While revenge films have been done before, they have never been done quite like this. This was definitely more of a grounded approach, with more focus on the characters themselves rather than gun fights. I really enjoyed that about the film. Making it a human story really allows you connect to Russell Blaze's struggle. The film had a very gritty look and feel throughout. There were also some beautiful shots in movie courteous of cinematographer Masanobu Takayanagi.
Christian Bale made this movie, as he becomes absorbed into the role. This is some of his best acting. Christian Bale makes you feel for his character the entire movie. He is compelling as Russell Blaze by delivering an earnest and understated performance. Casey Affleck plays a soldier going through stop-loss and returning as a rougher individual each time. How he deals with this is by taking out his frustrations by fighting in illegal bare knuckle boxing rings. Casey Affleck is awesome in this movie. He has his moments to shine and really does in this film. Woody Harrelson is gritty and unpredictable in the film. He is a slimy drug addict who enjoys cracking skulls as much as he does satisfying his addictions.
The screenplay is a depressing one. Everything that can seemingly go wrong for Russel does. It is a reflection of the themes that are present through the film. Out of The Furnace is a story told within a somber world that has next to no little hope. It is excellent example of film making where the story takes a left turn when you expect it to go right. It is a strong film which is headlined by a great performance by Christian Bale.
4/5
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