‘Swelter’ Review: More than ‘a Van Damme Movie’

If you are looking for a frenetic action movie full of fights, car chases and explosions then look someplace else. “Swelter” writer-director Keith Palmer is more interested in building tension and exploring the consequences of of violence. There are a few cool action sequences but they are means to an end: to tell a story about redemption and second chances.

Instead of featuring a trigger-happy hero, Bishop (Lennie James) is a sheriff that keeps the order without using a fire arm. He is an introspective and thoughtful man that tries to do the right thing and live a peaceful life, until his less honorable past comes to haunt him.

The darkness in his previous life is embodied by four dangerous criminals: Cole (Grant Bowler), Boyd (Josh Henderson), Kane (Daniele Favilli) and Stillman (Jean-Claude Van Damme). But even “the bad guys” here are complex, each of them having different codes and agendas.

Favilli leaves a particularly strong impression. His natural charisma and the unpredictability of his character create a menacing presence that reminded me of Heith Ledger’s Joker. Van Damme also shines in a more subtle and vulnerable role. He brings all of his gravitas to a character that is a flawed human, not a fighting machine.

One of the biggest merits of the filmmakers is the world building aspect. This town near Las Vegas Nevada is another character in the film. Its atmosphere is palpable and you feel that you are in a “real” place, full of stories and history. In great part thanks to the richness of the community that inhabits it. Even the prostitutes in the local bar have their moment in the spotlight.

One of the most colorful people here is the Doctor, interpreted by the always amazing Alfred Molina. The actor gives a 100% once again, making you laugh with a part that may have felt a stereotypical comic relief in the hands of a less gifted artist. But for me, the main character is Carmen, a single mother played by Academy Award Nominee actress Catalina Sandino Moreno. The Colombian gives another great performance, becoming the emotional anchor and elevating the film.

“Swelter” isn’t a perfect film, but it has enough talent and ambition to keep you interested from beginning to end. Parmer’s ability to take familiar elements into unexpected territories makes him a filmmaker to watch for.