Bob Odenkirk probably plays 'Nobody' better than so many somebodies
The now compelling actor, whose legal bones as a recurring character on AMC's classic "Breaking Bad" still earn plenty of revenge-tinged opportunities on his own "Better Call Saul," actually makes getting even a possible franchise experience here. It all starts with Odenkirk's seemingly milquetoast bookkeeper deciding to seek payback for a home invasion. In fact, anyone might feel sorry for the poor guy after his teen son, brother-in-law, and father-in-law who employs him are among many believing that the typically amiable "Hutch" has let his family down.
Guess again, though, especially since we can watch Odenkirk's ever-serious countenance speaking volumes while riding buses to and through a series of violent confrontations, even after he so agreeably settles the first score with a couple of not-so-nasty night burglars.
Through all the heavy butt-kicking, of course, we're getting clues about what might have been Hutch's previous life from his successful realtor wife (Connie Nielsen), mysterious friend (RZA), and age-riddled dad (humorous Christopher Lloyd, offering shades of both Doc Brown from the "Back to the Future" movies and his institutionalized patient from "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest").
Certainly, as directed by Ilya Naishuller of "Hardcore Henry" fame, and particularly as written by Derek Kolstad, who created the popular John Wick franchise, Hutch's similarities to both action-heavy tough guys pop up rather regularly. Regardless, it still says here that no one can play unassuming as credibly as Odenkirk.
And, if his "Nobody" is not enough, well, then the eclectic soundtrack simply includes everybody -- from Louis Armstrong and Pat Benatar to Peter Ilyich Tschaikowsky and Andy Williams. The irony abounds!
Rated "R" by MPAA: strong violence and bloody images, language throughout and brief drug use; 1:32; $ $ $ and 1/2 out of $5
