Lawless, directed by John Hillcoat and based on Matt Bondurant’s novel The Wettest County in the World, is a gritty, atmospheric tale of Prohibition-era America. Set in 1930s Virginia, the film follows the Bondurant brothers—Forrest (Tom Hardy), Howard (Jason Clarke), and Jack (Shia LaBeouf)—as they run a successful moonshine business and clash with corrupt lawmen trying to muscle in on their territory. The story is a blend of violent frontier justice and family loyalty, rooted in the harsh realities of a lawless time. Tom Hardy gives a standout performance as the stoic and nearly mythic Forrest, balancing quiet menace with dry wit, while LaBeouf’s portrayal of the youngest brother’s coming-of-age adds a more emotional, uncertain layer to the narrative.

What sets Lawless apart is its richly detailed setting and tone. The cinematography by Benoît Delhomme captures the raw, muddy beauty of Depression-era Appalachia, lending the film a texture that feels both timeless and tangible. Nick Cave’s screenplay and brooding musical score (co-created with Warren Ellis) deepen the mood with a sense of poetic violence and moral ambiguity. The supporting cast—especially Guy Pearce as the sadistic and almost surreal Special Deputy Charlie Rakes—brings a disturbing edge to the film’s depiction of justice and power. Jessica Chastain and Mia Wasikowska add depth to their roles, though their characters sometimes feel underused compared to the male leads.

Though it doesn’t rewrite the crime genre, Lawless excels in style, atmosphere, and character. It tells a familiar story with enough grit and gravitas to leave a strong impression, supported by a solid ensemble and intense, well-staged action. It’s a slow-burn tale of survival and brotherhood that doesn’t shy away from brutality or beauty, making it one of the more memorable crime dramas of the 2010s. Fans of westerns, gangster films, or Southern gothic stories will likely find it a rewarding watch.