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.
