Blood Ties (18+) – starring Clive Owen, Billy Crudup, Marion Cotillard, Zoe Saldana and Mila Kunis, directed by Guillame Canet
Hollywood is no stranger to organised crime films; from ‘Scarface’ to ‘The Godfather’ trilogy. This 2013 remake of the 2008 French thriller ‘Les liens du sang’ (Rivals) may not offer anything surprising with its 1970’s Brooklyn backdrop but its cast certainly make it one to watch.
It’s 1974 in New York and fifty-year-old Chris (Owen) has just been released from prison for good behaviour. At the encouragement of their sister, Chris is given a place to stay at brother Frank’s house. Frank (Crudup), a cop with a bright career ahead of him, used to idolise his brother before his prison stint. Holding on to the hope that Chris has changed, Frank helps his brother get back on his feet, finding him a job at a garage and reconnecting Chris with his ex-wife Monica (Cotillard) and children.
While Chris unsuccessfully attempts to patch up his relationship with his bitter ex-wife and secure a stable job, he is eventually forced to return to his criminal ways. Although initially reluctant, Chris is soon back in action, this time with a vengeance. Inevitably, Chris is brought face-to-face with his law-abiding brother following an armed robbery.
As one betrayal leads to another, Frank disowns his wayward brother. But is it too late? Have the brothers’ destinies been bound by blood ties forever?
Blood Ties hits cinemas this Thursday, March 27th.
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