Normal Review: A Wild Ride Through Not-So-Normal

Introduction

The buzz around Normal has been palpable, largely fueled by the return of Bob Odenkirk to the action genre. Audiences were primed for another dose of his "kick-ass older guy" persona, and this film delivers a fresh take. Here, Odenkirk steps into the boots of a substitute sheriff in a seemingly quiet town aptly named Normal. But as the title subtly hints, not all is as it appears. When a bank robbery spirals out of control, the thin veil of normalcy is ripped away, revealing a deeply corrupt underbelly that forces our reluctant hero to fight his way out. Penned by Derek Kolstad, the writer behind the John Wick saga, there's an undeniable flavor of that gritty action DNA, yet Normal carves its own path under the direction of Ben Wheatley, ensuring it's far from a mere carbon copy.

The Lead Dynamic & The Action

Bob Odenkirk is exactly what one hopes for in this role: a good cop, a decent man, and a "Superman of sheriffs" who prefers diffusing situations with fairness rather than force. His character's quiet integrity is immediately engaging, exemplified in a charming exchange with a drunk where genuine decency shines through. This grounded portrayal makes his eventual plunge into chaos all the more impactful. When the action ignites, it's remarkably entertaining. The film solidifies Odenkirk's place as the new go-to for the "kick-ass badass older guy" archetype, a mantle he wears with effortless cool. As the stakes escalate, our sheriff finds himself with an unlikely crew of allies, a dynamic that shifts and evolves, almost as if he's "constructing his Final Fantasy party" on the fly, swapping out companions as the mission demands.

Cameos, Nostalgia & Narrative Stakes

Normal sprinkles in a few unexpected cameos that add to its action-comedy charm, prompting genuine laughs amidst the violence. The film's first half is surprisingly its most engaging, drawing viewers into the mundane day-to-day life of the small town through the sheriff's eyes. The narrative excels at placing the audience directly in his point of view, allowing us to notice the subtle cues that something is amiss – the locked doors, the vague answers, the palpable sense of being in enemy territory without understanding why. This slow-burn mystery is a solid hook. However, once the "veil is lifted," the film shifts gears, and the second half, while exciting, becomes a bit uneven. The narrative claims a "thousand" enemies, yet the on-screen reality feels closer to "15," a minor disconnect that pulls slightly from the immersion.

Tone, Direction & Creative Freedom

Ben Wheatley's direction maintains an intriguing build-up, crafting solid tension that's hard to pinpoint. The film confidently leans into its "bigger picture ridiculous" when necessary, embracing the absurdity of its premise. While the overall execution is strong, one brief moment of "shaky cam" stands out, a fleeting reminder of a stylistic choice that thankfully doesn't derail the experience. Odenkirk's character is given a surprisingly heavy backstory, adding significant heft and weight to his motivations and actions, elevating the film beyond a simple action romp.

The Final Verdict

Ultimately, Normal delivers a genuinely good time. It's an entertaining ride that doesn't require any artificial enhancements to enjoy. The intriguing build-up and solid tension keep viewers hooked, and Bob Odenkirk is, once again, great in a role that, while potentially typecasting him, he imbues with considerable depth. The action is fun, the premise is straightforward, and the film isn't afraid to embrace its more outlandish elements. While the last act does get "a little crazy" and might need some time to "marinate" for some, it's a minor quibble in an otherwise enjoyable and engaging cinematic experience.