five reasons why "Lawless" is an awesome movie

Despite a somewhat lukewarm critical reception, Lawless has opened strongly at the Box Office on both sides of the Atlantic.  And the best news is, it's really good.  Here are five things that make it so good.

1.  The music.

Instead of using archive music, like Boardwalk Empire, or going for a dominant score; Lawless uses a selection of awesome original songs written by Nick Cave for the movie, performed by Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris, Ralph Stanley (O Brother, Where Art Thou), Mark Lanegan from Screaming Trees and Queens of the Stone Age.  Nick Cave has previously worked on music for The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford and The Road.

2.  Tom Hardy

Fast making the transition from ensemble or supporting actor, to leading man; Tom Hardy gives a stunning performance in this movie.

3.  Period detail. 

It may not be as epically produced as that other prohibition drama, Boardwalk Empire, but the rural settings are beautifully recreated.

  

4.  This movie has heart.

In the UK this movie has a rare "18" certificate, mainly because of its graphic violence.  But there is way more to this movie than gangster violence, it also has real heart.  In particular,  Shia Labeouf's cute relationship with Mia Wasikowska...

to Dane DeHaan' s heart breaking turn as Cricket Pate...

 

 

...and the chemistry between Tom Hardy & Jessica Chastain.

5. and finally,  two amazing performances.