‘Double Down South’ Review | Kim Coates keeps viewers on edge with his charming yet intimidating performance
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Tom Schulman's ‘Double Down South’ emerges as a captivating exploration of a lesser-known world of high-stakes billiards.
The film that released on January 19, strikes a chord with its authentic portrayal of rich characters and a refreshingly unfamiliar sport, making it a comforting watch.
A talented cast breathes life into ‘Double Down South’s plot
‘Double Down South’ opens with Diana (played brilliantly by Lili Simmons), a young hustler venturing into the rustic corners of a Mississippi town. She intends to make her mark in the pool game, but she's introduced to a new variant, billiards keno, a game that adds a fresh layer of excitement to the narrative.
The stakes are sky-high, the tension palpable, and the game is unlike any other. The film’s setting, an old plantation house, becomes a character in itself, harboring a host of intriguing personalities.
The house is run by Nick (a compelling Kim Coates), a man who sees potential in Diana and decides to sponsor her. However, as the game intensifies and takes a violent turn, Diana realizes she needs to triumph on her own terms.
The narrative mostly unfolds within the confines of the house and its adjoining outdoor fire pit, giving it the intimacy of a stage play.
One of the film's most endearing qualities is its authenticity, brought to life by a talented supporting cast. The characters, from the seasoned veteran to the reigning favorite in the pool world, create a captivating ensemble.
While ‘Double Down South’ has its imperfections, such as a slow pace and a lengthier run-time than necessary, it is these very flaws that contribute to its charm. The characters are vibrant, and their rich dialogue forms the backbone of the movie. The exchanges between Diana and Nick are charged with tension, keeping audiences on tenterhooks.
The unpredictable dynamics between Diana and Nick form the crux of the narrative. Nick's persona oscillates between a seemingly kind mentor and a volatile adversary, making his interactions with Diana riveting. Unlike conventional sports movies, Diana's path to success isn't linear, adding a realistic touch to the story.
‘Double Down South’ is a testament to Tom Schulman's storytelling prowess
The screenplay, penned by Tom Schulman, balances drama and sport without letting the characters fade into the background. The film's unpredictability, combined with the exploratory journey into the world of keno billiards, will leave audiences intrigued and yearning for more.
‘Double Down South’ is a testament to Schulman's storytelling prowess. It's a character-driven drama that takes a risk and succeeds. Coates’ presence adds depth to the narrative, and his ability to swing between charming and intimidating keeps viewers on edge.
In conclusion, ‘Double Down South’ is an engaging blend of drama, sport, and a fresh take on the world of high-stakes gambling. Its rich character development, captivating plot, and intriguing look into the world of keno billiards make it a must-watch. It's a film that dares to be different and reaps the rewards of taking that risk.
‘Double Down South’ trailer