Directed by: Brett Donowho
Distributed by: Saban Films
Written by Alexander Reams
23/100
The inherent problem with Nicolas Cage is the lack of predictability with the quality of his films. One year he’ll have “Willy’s Wonderland” and “Pig,” another “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent,” and then an awful western, a complete 180 in both genre and quality. “The Old Way” lets Cage dive back into the schlock that’s kept him financially afloat all these years. While director Brett Donowho does a few sporadic things right behind the camera, his mistakes outweigh the goodwill and talent that Cage brings.
From the opening flashback with tumbleweeds and intrusive guitar music it is clear that “The Old Way” is low quality, from Cage’s horrendously applied mustache–that looks as if one gust of wind will send it flying away–to its bland opening. Donowho isn’t the sole individual to blame, Carl W. Lucas who penned the script is equally at fault for stilted dialogue, simplistic plot machinations, and underwriting of basic genre conventions.
There are countless technical mistakes, from the breaks in continuity during a scene early on in the pharmacy, to poor blocking during the villain’s entrance to the film. Cage is trying, his care is evident and he is the best part of “The Old Way.” It is disheartening to see him return to the VOD schlock he’d been in. I digress, “The Old Way” is a bad movie, not “so bad it’s good” just bad.
“The Old Way” Trailer
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