At Close Range
Director: James Foley
Actors: Sean Penn, Christopher Walken, Mary Stuart Masterson
PlotA teenager named Brad Whitewood Jr. lives a mundane life in rural Pennsylvania, struggling for connection with his distant mother and yearning for the father he barely knows. When his father, Brad Sr., re-emerges with a charisma that both enthralls and intimidates him, Brad Jr. becomes enamored with the older man's dangerous lifestyle. Brad Sr. is the enigmatic head of a local crime syndicate, involved in theft and other nefarious activities. Seeking approval and love from his father, Brad Jr. is gradually drawn into the criminal undertakings, bringing along his impressionable younger brother Tommy.
As Brad Jr. becomes more involved with his father's criminal enterprise, he discovers a brutality and amorality that shake his initial admiration. Enticed by the quick money and a sense of purpose within the crew, Brad Jr. initially overlooks the risks and the impact on his family relationships. Meanwhile, he finds solace and a glimmer of normalcy with his love interest, Terry, who remains oblivious to the depths of his family's criminal connections. As some of Brad Sr.'s plans go awry, the stakes rise for everyone involved, forcing Brad Jr. to confront the reality of the path he has chosen.
Writers: Elliott Lewitt, Nicholas Kazan
Release Date: 18 Apr 1986
Runtime: 111 min
Rating: R
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
'At Close Range' delivers bleak, powerful performances amidst dysfunction; a must-see with superb technical quality. Highly recommended.
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