A story of human kindness eventually turns (on its head) into a low-key crime thriller. That's "Hard Eight" in a nutshell and it's propelled mostly by characters and dialogue - both of which are well done, especially this being PTA's first feature outing). But after some time passes in the story and new people are introduced, the movie starts to lose focus (and, honestly, I did too). It's in the second half that John C. Reilly's character gains prominence and he was oddly miscast here).
That said, when the movie is concentrating on Philip Baker Hall, it's quietly fascinating. There's nothing conspicuous about his performance but his laconic line delivery and professional mien made me want to spend more time with this character. He is fantastic in this film.
That said, when the movie is concentrating on Philip Baker Hall, it's quietly fascinating. There's nothing conspicuous about his performance but his laconic line delivery and professional mien made me want to spend more time with this character. He is fantastic in this film.