“Devil’s Peak” Serves up Billy Bob Thornton, Unleashed

Billy Bob Thornton shouldn’t scare a fly.

The “Sling Blade” The star is 67 years old and as slim as a supermodel.

Don’t let his frame fool you. When Thornton locks eyes on someone, it’s terrifying.

That is what the menace does “Devil’s Peak” It needs a little jolt. This southern-fried thriller has a boring lead man. We need every crooked grin Thornton has to keep tension high.

Hopper Penn stars in Jacob, who is the son (Thornton) of an Appalachian drug-king. We’re told early on, via on-the-nose dialogue, there’s little chance Jacob can escape a life of crime. He’s resigned to his lot in life, at least for now.

But, it’s fair to say that breaking the law can have its perks. That’s certainly the case with his pappy.

Thornton’s Charlie has the local law in his side pocket, a beautiful young gal pal (Emma Booth) and dreams of his son keeping the family business afloat.

Except Jacob’s heart isn’t into it. He’d rather spend time canoodling with his girlfriend (Katelyn Nacon), the daughter of a man with no love for Charlie. Jacob hopes to protect his Mama (Robin Wright), which is a difficult task.

These familiar, yet well-crafted elements will collide. “Devil’s Peak” It isn’t in a hurry to get there. Penn Wright, son of Robin Wright and Sean Wright, is left to anchor the material.

We should be in great, nay, even great hands given that lineage. But young Penn’s intriguing mug isn’t backed by the requisite charisma. He’s dull, and watching him figure out where his life needs to go should be the film’s moral compass.

Instead, we yearn to spend more time with Charlie.

Thornton’s line readings are precious, every last one. Watching him embrace Charlie’s vicious ways is the ultimate acting class. Every gesture is appreciated. Every gesture works together to create a mood and a moment.

Is it possible for many actors to imitate Thornton’s performance in a role?

‘Devil’s Peak’ Trailer: Robin Wright Stars With Son Hopper Penn And Billy Bob Thornton In Appalachian Crime Dramahttps://t.co/mQ1L6FBNSa pic.twitter.com/jmdZKCMgyu

— Punch Drunk Critics (@pdcmovies) February 9, 2023

“Devil’s Peak” doesn’t shed new light on small-town drug culture or the notion that family determines our fate. The ensemble cast delivers one against-type character, a sheriff who seems both wise and willing to be played as needed.

That’s the great Jackie Earle Haley, who conveys the broken spirit of both his fellow officers and the townsfolk.

Blood will be shed, of course, and the third act offers some crisp scenes worthy of the film’s cast. Penn’s presence, or lack thereof, ensures “Devil’s Peak” is never more than a lovingly crafted thriller bound to be forgotten.

HiT or Miss: “Devil’s Peak” serves up a vintage turn by Billy Bob Thornton, but we need much more from star Hopper Penn to make this family saga soar.