Was ok - had the potential to be much better. Missed the small details that make something like this a little more believable and compelling. Silly things like a disabled elderly lady could find the murder weapon with her walking stick but a spritely young girl crawling around on the floor couldn't... And leaving the knife around in the first place... murder prep 101! Haha and then they drag a box with the body in, all the way up a cliff where they then push it off into the rocky cove where it can be shallow - when later you discover they had a small boat they could have used to go out to sea that same night and drop in the middle of the ocean. Jesus, come on!
140 Reviews
Neo-Noir Gossip Thriller
ThomasDrufke4 February 2020
A neo-noir small town thriller that thrives on the performances of its young leads and veteran supporting cast, Blow the Man Down is at the very least, an interesting original story that succeeds in atmosphere and tone. Even if it doesn't feel completely whole enough to be acclaimed. It felt like Fargo-lite, and that's not entirely a bad thing.
6.8/10
6.8/10
Casting was outstanding...
Top_Dawg_Critic21 March 2020
...and everyone fit their role and played their part perfectly, especially the sisters and June Squibb, who is always a joy to watch.
The directing was good, but the writing/screenplay could've been better, and had plot and technical issues. The pacing was a little slow and the 90 min runtime felt like 2 hours. The singing fishermen and obnoxious score were very annoying imo. However, the cinematography and sets were great. I know the critics liked this film, and its Fargo theme, but it's not my cup of storytelling tea. It's 6/10 all going to the cast.
The directing was good, but the writing/screenplay could've been better, and had plot and technical issues. The pacing was a little slow and the 90 min runtime felt like 2 hours. The singing fishermen and obnoxious score were very annoying imo. However, the cinematography and sets were great. I know the critics liked this film, and its Fargo theme, but it's not my cup of storytelling tea. It's 6/10 all going to the cast.
Solid film, fun ride
mannatopia29 April 2019
While sometimes it felt that a bit too much was crammed into this film, it is always engaging and held my interest. Caught it at Tribecca. Mixed emotions hit me throughout as I enjoyed some very unique components including the music and the beautiful settings, but sometimes a campiness had me feeling like I was watching Desperate Housewives. The two young actresses playing the sisters we're very strong, and held their ground with a group of very seasoned actresses. A lot to like here.
Great Acting, Thinner Plot
BoomerFan22 March 2020
Everyone in Easter Cove, Maine has dark secrets, and they all unravel in a day or two - maybe for the better, maybe not. While the film captures the look and feel of a worn-out fishing village (I found the cinematography spot-on for the environment), the plot seemed a bit thin and contrived. As desperate as all the main characters were for change in their bleak lives, I had a hard time believing that they would have done the things they did, past and present. As the two sisters, Morgan Saylor and Sophie Lowe held their own with an ensemble cast of veteran character actors including June Squibb and Margo Martindale. A distracting enough way to pass an hour or so of social distancing.
a pretty young damsel I chanced to meet
ferguson-619 March 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Greetings again from the darkness. Who better to sing the title song than Gloucester, Massachusetts singer David Coffin ... while wearing the attire of the local fishermen of fictional Easter Cove, Maine? Mr. Coffin's rich vocals (and face) pop up periodically throughout the film and provide an unusual bit of story structure to the feature film debut of co-writers and co-directors Bridget Savage Cole and Danielle Krudy. It's a nifty little indie film that's fun to watch, despite some gaps in the storytelling that keep it from 'what could have been.'
Sophie Lowe and Morgan Saylor star as the Connolly sisters, Priscilla and Mary Beth. Their mother Mary Margaret Connolly has just died, and it appears they may lose their family home as well as the family business - a local fish market. Priscilla is the reserved, level-headed one, while Mary Beth (who put off college for a year) is impulsive and reactionary. A poor decision made while drinking with bad boy Gorski (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) leads to a violent confrontation involving a harpoon, a brick and cole slaw. Well, technically the cole slaw comes in during the clean-up being orchestrated by Priscilla.
There are some Coen Brothers and neo-noir elements at play here, which, along with the intriguing small town characters keeps us connected to the story and wondering how things will end up. An interesting twist has Easter Cove with a Matriarchal town structure, one of which the recently deceased Mary Margaret Connolly was instrumental. Three elderly ladies played with glee by June Squibb, Marceline Hugot, and Annette O'Toole take it upon themselves to continue the behind-the-scenes power brokering, while at the same time 'cleaning up' the town a bit. After the murder of a local prostitute, the triumvirate of senior women confront Enid Nora Devlin (yet another scene-stealing turn from Margot Martindale), who runs Ocean View B&B, the town's brothel. Enid listens to their request to shutter the doors ... or at least transition into a traditional bed and breakfast.
A found bag of money plays a role, as does Priscilla's carving knife, and Alexis (Gayle Rankin), a friend of the murdered girl. Will Brittain plays Officer Justin Brennan, a young policeman who fancies Priscilla and is committed to solving the crime(s). All of these interactions are quite something to watch, as most every character has their own secrets and motivations. As mentioned, the story structure may remind some of Coen Brothers projects, however as fun as it is to watch, it's lacking the sharp and witty dialogue of the Coens. Also, while many of us enjoy movies that don't fill in every detail, there are gaps crucial to understanding the actions of these characters ... gaps that probably should have been colored in a bit more.
Harpswell, Maine poses as Easter Cove, and there is something about this small fishing community on the northeast coast that creates a unique and appealing setting for a movie. Additionally, the dialect and personalities make for entertaining cinema. It's a nice first feature for Ms. Cole and Ms. Krudy and we look forward to more of their work.
Sophie Lowe and Morgan Saylor star as the Connolly sisters, Priscilla and Mary Beth. Their mother Mary Margaret Connolly has just died, and it appears they may lose their family home as well as the family business - a local fish market. Priscilla is the reserved, level-headed one, while Mary Beth (who put off college for a year) is impulsive and reactionary. A poor decision made while drinking with bad boy Gorski (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) leads to a violent confrontation involving a harpoon, a brick and cole slaw. Well, technically the cole slaw comes in during the clean-up being orchestrated by Priscilla.
There are some Coen Brothers and neo-noir elements at play here, which, along with the intriguing small town characters keeps us connected to the story and wondering how things will end up. An interesting twist has Easter Cove with a Matriarchal town structure, one of which the recently deceased Mary Margaret Connolly was instrumental. Three elderly ladies played with glee by June Squibb, Marceline Hugot, and Annette O'Toole take it upon themselves to continue the behind-the-scenes power brokering, while at the same time 'cleaning up' the town a bit. After the murder of a local prostitute, the triumvirate of senior women confront Enid Nora Devlin (yet another scene-stealing turn from Margot Martindale), who runs Ocean View B&B, the town's brothel. Enid listens to their request to shutter the doors ... or at least transition into a traditional bed and breakfast.
A found bag of money plays a role, as does Priscilla's carving knife, and Alexis (Gayle Rankin), a friend of the murdered girl. Will Brittain plays Officer Justin Brennan, a young policeman who fancies Priscilla and is committed to solving the crime(s). All of these interactions are quite something to watch, as most every character has their own secrets and motivations. As mentioned, the story structure may remind some of Coen Brothers projects, however as fun as it is to watch, it's lacking the sharp and witty dialogue of the Coens. Also, while many of us enjoy movies that don't fill in every detail, there are gaps crucial to understanding the actions of these characters ... gaps that probably should have been colored in a bit more.
Harpswell, Maine poses as Easter Cove, and there is something about this small fishing community on the northeast coast that creates a unique and appealing setting for a movie. Additionally, the dialect and personalities make for entertaining cinema. It's a nice first feature for Ms. Cole and Ms. Krudy and we look forward to more of their work.
Unravel an Amusing Little World with the Spirit of "Fargo"
TwistedContent20 March 2020
Small town crime neo-noir strikes again, this time in a way that feels fresher. A lot of people are praising "Blow the Man Down" for invoking a "Fargo" feel which I agree it does, the spirit is there, in the form of the story and what's happening to characters, ordinary and mysterious alike. Led by a strong mostly female cast, "Blow the Man Down" is an engaging ride into the neat world of a small coastal town and the unravelment of its shadier side.
Priscilla (Sophie Lowe) and Mary Beth (Morgan Saylor) Connolys are dealing with the death and funeral of their mother and the next couple days will be a storm distress not only for them but for the whole town. A murder happens, and the rest is up to You to see. Did I mention that the town is run by a bunch of old women? There's enough fun to be had with the secrets and antics of this small port town, script provides until the very end. Directors and writers Bridget Savage Cole and Danielle Krudy are walking a fine line of using familiar genre tropes and tweaking them just enough to allow some necessary freshness while never doing an overkill at it. The structure's not flawless and pacing suffers at moments, but not at a big cost. The two young leads, together with a veteran supporting cast does a great job in the acting department, with the highlight performances being brought on by Sophie Lowe and Margo Martindale in the more villainous role. If the story and characters aren't enough yet, there's also decent cinematography - the indie, low-budget kind, but one that colors the chilly atmosphere, which is further filled with mood setting creative solutions in the music department.
I say blow him down, I'm excited to see what these filmmakers bring on next, and always down for just about anything that fits the bill of a small town crime / neo-noir / americana / rural shenanigans themes in the crime genre. "Blow the Man Down" should please the like-minded. My rating: 7/10.
Priscilla (Sophie Lowe) and Mary Beth (Morgan Saylor) Connolys are dealing with the death and funeral of their mother and the next couple days will be a storm distress not only for them but for the whole town. A murder happens, and the rest is up to You to see. Did I mention that the town is run by a bunch of old women? There's enough fun to be had with the secrets and antics of this small port town, script provides until the very end. Directors and writers Bridget Savage Cole and Danielle Krudy are walking a fine line of using familiar genre tropes and tweaking them just enough to allow some necessary freshness while never doing an overkill at it. The structure's not flawless and pacing suffers at moments, but not at a big cost. The two young leads, together with a veteran supporting cast does a great job in the acting department, with the highlight performances being brought on by Sophie Lowe and Margo Martindale in the more villainous role. If the story and characters aren't enough yet, there's also decent cinematography - the indie, low-budget kind, but one that colors the chilly atmosphere, which is further filled with mood setting creative solutions in the music department.
I say blow him down, I'm excited to see what these filmmakers bring on next, and always down for just about anything that fits the bill of a small town crime / neo-noir / americana / rural shenanigans themes in the crime genre. "Blow the Man Down" should please the like-minded. My rating: 7/10.
Better than very good
epperhud27 March 2020
Small Town Crimes
kosmasp26 August 2021
Now of course reading my summary line you may draw the conclusion that this is not a big deal. But you may be quite wrong about that. On the other hand, the pacing of the movie might also make you draw certain conclusion ... or make you dislike it.
Would be a shame, because this is more than decent overall. The main characters are very well painted (no pun intended) and have their work cut out for them. Depending on your morals you will judge them and their actions differently of course.
Not the best of the bunch for me, but certainly above average ... if you can dig its vibe and its pace.
Would be a shame, because this is more than decent overall. The main characters are very well painted (no pun intended) and have their work cut out for them. Depending on your morals you will judge them and their actions differently of course.
Not the best of the bunch for me, but certainly above average ... if you can dig its vibe and its pace.
Good acting ...... that's it. Completely senseless
lapaulmac6 April 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Not sure what just happened ...... started off well and had high hopes but it literally fell off a cliff with the body! The rest of the movie was just a cluster of nonsense with an even more nonsensical ending. Have it 5 star for the first 30 mins & zero for the remainder
Good Quirky Movie
vintagegeek29 July 2020
Great actors who played their parts very well. The three old gals, who know everything that goes on in town, work their magic up front and behind the scenes. Margo Martindale makes it worth watching. You'll know whether it's your cup of tea in the first 20 minutes. It's not a comedy-drama but the little old ladies will make you laugh throughout.
Always great to see the incomparable Margo M.
rafitz4416 April 2020
Couldn't particularly get into it
muamba_eats_toast10 April 2020
There was nothing specifically wrong with it the acting was all pretty good and it felt quite atmospheric at times but at the same time it was extremely slow and not to much happened after the initial scenes. Certainly not terrible but not particularly great in my opinion either.
Good acting, decent story that could have been better.
deloudelouvain4 November 2020
Overal Blow The Man Down isn't a bad movie. The cast is the best thing about the movie, with some good acting from almost everybody. The plot on the other hand could have been better. It isn't bad but there was room for improvement. I see people comparing it to Fargo but let's be totally clear about this, there is absolutely no comparison between the two besides the fact there is snow and a murder in both of them. Fargo is top quality, Blow The Man Down is a watchable but it's still an average movie. I don't regret watching it though but I won't watch it again for a second time.
Something fishy here.
Pjtaylor-96-13804417 June 2020
This slightly offbeat domestic thriller sees two young women accidentally uncover a town-wide conspiracy when they attempt to cover up a murder. It's solid stuff throughout, with its down-to-earth characters and rustic aesthetic lending a unique flavour to its more traditional thriller elements. Having said that, 'Blow The Man Down (2019)' isn't exactly traditional. It has a marked, almost realistic atmosphere that seeps into every scene, and its tangled web of small-town criminals provides a palpable sense of suspense just because you're never exactly sure how they're going to come together. The piece slows down somewhat in its mid-section and seemingly loses focus on its protagonists, but it does so only to get its other, equally important elements into the fray and comes together nicely at the end. It's an odd experience in some ways. However, it's always engaging and entertaining. 7/10
Main cast acting is outstanding!
blackbm-9824922 March 2020
Definitely reminded me of Fargo, sinister underlying unease and moody cinematography but the best for me was the acting. Even the hooker was exceptional. The intermediate singing, although haunting and an integral part of the movie, got on my nerves a bit though. Perhaps used it in the wrong way.
Calling the Coen Brothers
screenwriter-972-14961213 June 2020
Oh, what the Coen Brothers would have done for this movie! It cries out for better shots, faster pacing and...most of all...humor. In more skilled hands, this story would have been tighter and far more interesting. Instead it's distracting and, at times, down right confusing. Terrific casting and good performances all around make this an above average film. But, oh, what might have been!
This is crazy good!
TCinDC28 December 2020
This is one of the best movies I've watched all year. I had been putting it off because of the mixed reviews, especially those that were confused about the singing fisherman, the "lack of a plot," "incoherent plot," and more.
There is definitely a story and cohesive plot; you only have to pay close attention. The story started off well and grabbed my attention. It unfolds slowly, but in an interesting way, peeling back layers one-by-one, until everything's revealed and all comes together. The Singing Fishermen who appear here and there are the Greek chorus to this Greek tragedy set in Easter Cove, Maine. It is not a "gothic" film. Some understanding of the Classics would give easier insights into this film, but it's not necessary. Just pay attention.
The atmosphere and characters are very authentic. I have family in and from Maine, and I've been around the state. The cinematography and directing, in addition to the acting, are simply superb. Don't shortchange yourself by letting some of these weak reviews mislead you. This is cinematographic art at its best. Sit back and enjoy.
There is definitely a story and cohesive plot; you only have to pay close attention. The story started off well and grabbed my attention. It unfolds slowly, but in an interesting way, peeling back layers one-by-one, until everything's revealed and all comes together. The Singing Fishermen who appear here and there are the Greek chorus to this Greek tragedy set in Easter Cove, Maine. It is not a "gothic" film. Some understanding of the Classics would give easier insights into this film, but it's not necessary. Just pay attention.
The atmosphere and characters are very authentic. I have family in and from Maine, and I've been around the state. The cinematography and directing, in addition to the acting, are simply superb. Don't shortchange yourself by letting some of these weak reviews mislead you. This is cinematographic art at its best. Sit back and enjoy.
Unconventional
fmwongmd13 May 2020
Makes very little sense.
nigelmacdonald-9717328 March 2020
To Bridget Savage Cole and Danielle Krudy
rping24 May 2020
Not a review as much as a fan letter. Great story telling! And you didn't dumb it down which is a tribute to your directing. You gave just enough to get across the plot points without slowing the pace, The musical interludes were well timed and well placed. Good strong characters and development tho would love to have seen Mary Margret in a flashback! Retired white male here and clearly appreciate the strong feminist POV. My favorite line has to be "Hey, there's your girl." "Naw...I don't like her anymore." Keep up the Great Work!
Classic Plot but Little New
Hitchcoc22 March 2020
I enjoyed parts of this because the two young women are such good actresses. This is the classic plot where someone commits a murder (although justifiable in this case) and then hides the body. Soon the nets begin to close in on them. In the process they learn things about the town they live in, especially in its early days.
Original but missing something at the centre.
SnobReviews6 May 2020
While "Blow The Man Down" is original and the cast is sharp, the film never lives up to its full potential.
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In this crime film, sisters attempt to cover up the murder a dangerous man and must go deep into the criminal underbelly of their hometown to do so.
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Reading up on "Blow The Man Down", it was mentioned many times that this film was a mix of dark humour and a crime drama. I honestly didn't laugh at all; it's more of a drama than anything else. Sure it's got quirky characters but don't compare "Blow The Man Down" to "Fargo". I did enjoy the cast; Sophie Lowe and Morgan Saylor are a terrific duo. The real deal in this is the great Margo Martindale, who was born to play a role like this; twisted, rude and vengeful. Overall, something was missing within the film and I didn't get all the hype surrounding it. If you'd like to see it for yourself, you can stream it on Amazon Prime Video.
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Enjoyable!
victoriakeelan-6874323 January 2021
Please Slow Down to Tell the Story
acg_imdb15 April 2020
Warning: Spoilers
I really wanted to like this more, with its gorgeous cinematography and interesting characters, not to mention a mostly-offstage Greek chorus of fishermen singing sea shanties at random intervals, but its overstuffed plotline racing towards a conclusion only 90 minutes after it started gives the strong impression that the producers were unable to secure an 8-episode commitment from Amazon, and were forced to compress everything into a single movie timespan instead. It did not go well.
The characters are interesting, and one wants to follow them individually a bit more to learn their backgrounds. The problem is that there are so many interesting characters and so little time. A number of scenes along the way build to a tense finish, apparently intended as a cliffhanger that would have made a great ending to one episode and made us hungry for the next, but instead we have to rush headlong into the next scene to get on with things. The increasing complications along the way make the ending only more abrupt, with too many things left unexplained. (For example, why would a certain character feel the need to pull what would have to be a 200-pound floating container out of the sea, how would they physically manage it, what would they do with the contents, and why would they be cleaning it outside in plain sight of everyone passing by?)
This is the sort of Modern Gothic undertaking that Ozark (2017), for example, does so well, but they, in contrast, take the time to tell a story in detail and let us settle into it. This film rushes through a similar saga in 90 minutes, when a better approach would to either seek out a longer format, or at least unpack some of the baggage before making the trip.
The characters are interesting, and one wants to follow them individually a bit more to learn their backgrounds. The problem is that there are so many interesting characters and so little time. A number of scenes along the way build to a tense finish, apparently intended as a cliffhanger that would have made a great ending to one episode and made us hungry for the next, but instead we have to rush headlong into the next scene to get on with things. The increasing complications along the way make the ending only more abrupt, with too many things left unexplained. (For example, why would a certain character feel the need to pull what would have to be a 200-pound floating container out of the sea, how would they physically manage it, what would they do with the contents, and why would they be cleaning it outside in plain sight of everyone passing by?)
This is the sort of Modern Gothic undertaking that Ozark (2017), for example, does so well, but they, in contrast, take the time to tell a story in detail and let us settle into it. This film rushes through a similar saga in 90 minutes, when a better approach would to either seek out a longer format, or at least unpack some of the baggage before making the trip.
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