Movie Review: “The Dirty South” – Desperation and Deception

“The Dirty South,” written and directed by Matthew Yerby, unfolds as a captivating tale centered around Sue Parker, a small-town girl embroiled in a desperate struggle to salvage her family’s bar and land. The film masterfully weaves a narrative of familial strife, economic hardship, and criminal intrigue, offering viewers a gritty and compelling story.

At the heart of the plot is Sue Parker, portrayed convincingly by Willa Holland, who narrates the story from a first-person perspective. Sue provides insight into her family dynamics, shedding light on the deteriorating state of their business, owned by her troubled father, Gary Parker (played by Wayne Pére). Gary’s struggles with substance abuse, the fallout from his failed marriage to Gina (Michelle Mustard), and the relentless pursuit of their property by the affluent Jeb Roy (played by Dermot Mulroney) set the stage for the family’s dire predicament.

Shane West in The Dirty South

The introduction of the charismatic drifter, Dion, played by Shane West, injects a dose of unpredictability into the narrative. Sue sees Dion as a last resort to thwart Jeb Roy‘s takeover of their bar. Dion, with his roguish charm and a penchant for pickpocketing and theft, brings a dynamic element to the story.

The film takes an unexpected turn when Sue enlists Dion‘s help in a seemingly simple plan to save her family’s business. However, the narrative quickly escalates into a web of larceny, lawlessness, and deadly consequences, pushing the characters to their limits.

The performances in “The Dirty South” are commendable across the board. Shane West embodies the enigmatic Dion with charisma and a hint of danger, while Willa Holland delivers a nuanced portrayal of Sue, a determined woman navigating a world on the brink of chaos. Dermot Mulroney‘s presence adds gravitas to the film, enriching the overall ensemble.

While the central theme of economic disparity and familial struggles is not groundbreaking, Yerby infuses the familiar plot with intriguing subplots and character development. The rivalry between the Parker and Roy families, coupled with internal family issues, adds depth to the narrative, elevating it beyond a conventional small-town drama.

As the story unfolds, its title “The Dirty South” takes on added meaning, emphasizing the moral ambiguity and lawlessness prevalent in the characters’ actions. The absence of a strong law enforcement presence raises questions about accountability, enhancing the film’s suspense.

Dermot Mulroney, Wayne Pére & Willa Holland in The Dirty South

The production values of “The Dirty South” contribute to its overall appeal. The cinematography captures the essence of the small town setting without resorting to clichéd visual tropes. The film maintains a balance, presenting the action, crime, and drama with a realism that adds to its authenticity.

While the film may not break new ground in the genre, it succeeds in delivering a solid and entertaining experience. The combination of a compelling, if somewhat familiar, story, strong performances, and well-executed production makes “The Dirty South” a film worth watching. 

I will score this film 6/10. Its simplicity, coupled with moments of intensity and depth, ensures that it can be enjoyed on multiple viewings, making it a noteworthy entry in the indie film landscape.

“The Dirty South” is now available on digital on DVD starting Dec 12, 2023.