"The Devil All The Time": Brutal But Uninspired

 "The Devil All The Time": Movie Review

 Written By Alex Greenbaum

Bill Skarsgård, Tom Holland and Robert Pattinson shine in their respective roles with a supreme vigor, sparking Antonio and Paulo Campos's plodding screenplay. Jumbling between its varying timelines, from post World War 2 up to the 1960's, "The Devil All The Time" is a harsh, violent, and punishing affair fixated on the harmful implications of religion. And while its brutal world building exemplifies its successes, there's a predictable familiarity that eventually seeps its way into its multiple storylines. 

In the deep woods of Alabama, a young and ferocious Arvin (Holland) attempts to rid the cruelty cemented into his small town. 

Its exaggerated though tantalizing trio of interwoven scenarios are a delight to watch unravel. But besides its colorful cast of characters, the detailed meaning slowly devolves into disorientation. The corruption, murder and numerous abnormalities become paralyzing, stripping its climax of any remaining intensity. 

Akin to films such as "History of Violence", "There Will Be Blood", and "Revolutionary Road", "The Devil All The Time" lives and dies by its influences unabashedly, but includes some tremendous acting performances that lift its limp framework. Lush southern locations and some young committed acting talent propel a lifeless tale of revenge and chaos. 

2 1/2 Stars Out Of 4