Wesley Cash

The small indie film, WESLEY CASH, takes chances only a first time filmmaker would tackle.

Set in a remote part of Texas, the beautifully shot locale gives the story a loneliness that enhances the believability of the at times, far-fetched plot. What the film lacks in realism, it makes up for in it's sheer boldness. Shot with little money, on a limited schedule (19 days) and with no big names attached, Wesley Cash could have faded into the sunset of first film obscurity. Instead, it engages a unique genre rarely seen in today's cinema - the Modern Action/Western.

Writer and director, Will Moore does an admirable job of capturing the brutal violence of his lead character, Wesley, as he returns home to reclaim his family's stolen land.

Chad Mathews, who plays the title character, is a solid casting choice as the loner gone bad. Mathews' intensity plays well with Moore's keen eye for dramatic action.

Complementing the film's emotional ride is Jonathan Case's haunting and raucous score, which interestingly sets a mood all its own.

Although the film is not without freshmen mistakes, the good outweighs the bad, and Moore should be commended for his gutsy perseverance to write and direct such a grand story with limited resources. This get-it-done attitude of film-making is refreshing, inspiring and worth a view.

Moore's future film success looks to be certain. Wesley Cash is an entertaining way to open one's career and will be a great "remember him back when" reference for aspiring filmmakers and fans.

The first film of Bandwagon Films, Wesley Cash was directed by Will James Moore and stars Chad Mathews. It is the story of a man who goes home to build a life, only to discover that everything in his life is being ripped away and he must try to find a way to make it right. The story starts in the middle, and through flashbacks the plot begins to unfold. As events move forward Wesley's simple journey home becomes a quest for survival and revenge. Moore has written a compelling story which balances quiet dialogue scenes, fast paced chases, tense confrontations and energetic fight scenes. Mathews commands our attention in all of his scenes, and his emerging talent is evident.

Much of the supporting cast does an excellent job, as well. The most memorable to me was Tex Marshal as Sheriff Sonny Crockett. His character adds a welcome bit of levity to what can at times be a heavy film. The soundtrack by Jonathan Case and the band Restaurant is unique and a perfect accompaniment to the film's style. Cuts to the music and its distinctive rhythm help to set the perfect mood for each scene. The scenery of South Texas is used to its full extent, and at moments is breathtaking. In a few cases the lines are somewhat awkward, but not enough to take you out of the story, and it adds to the realistic feel of the entire film.

Wesley Cash is a perfect example of why some films require a second viewing. It has a short run time for a feature, and because of that it moves fast enough to keep even the most distractible viewer interested. The fast pace of the plot and the fact that the story isn't told in chronological order can present an issue if the viewer does not pay close attention. The first time I watched Wesley Cash, I was left with a number of lingering questions. Upon my second viewing, I discovered the answers were already there. At first glance, I would have given Wesley Cash a 6, maybe a weak 7. But after a second look I would give it an 8.5. As that's not allowed, I feel an 8 is more than justified.

I'm very impressed with this film and look forward to seeing where the filmmakers go next.

I definitely enjoyed the movie Wesley Cash because I had the privilege of playing the role of Sheriff Tanner. I was equally thrilled to read the user comments from IMDb when I was highly mentioned as a good supporting actor. I just kept taking the advise from the phenomenal director, Will Moore....he said often for me to just stay natural. I told him later.....Where there is a Will, there is a Way... He is the success behind the movie since he has the knack of making each and every actor feel important. Every actor seemed to always do their best because they soon realized they were performing for the finest director who gave the best counseling. Will Moore helped each of us to walk with pride and to always have a desire to act in his future movies. My role as Sheriff Tanner taught me that I could be one of the big boys after all..... Charles Colson

I had the pleasure of seeing "Westly Cash" at a screening at AFI in Los Angeles. There is little about this movie that can be considered bad. A few of the actors are cardboard, some of the writing seems lackluster and some of the cuts are questionable. Again these are criticisms coming from someone who is very critical of films. Now for the good. What a fun story. I definitely recommend you check this movie out. Will Moore is a first time director with a sharp eye for superb visuals and a natural talent for creating an atmosphere that parallels the story. Chad Matthews (Cash) carries the movie on shoulders that could obviously handle more. Matthews is unforgettable as a quiet Texas boy who has been dealt a lame hand and plays it the only way he knows how. Much of the supporting cast deserves mention as well. Kara Rastrelli, Tex Marshal, Charles Colson are just a few that I caught on my radar. Overall this film was delightfully surprising and I can't wait to own my own copy.