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Blood for Dust (2023), directed by Rod Blackhurst, is a moody, neo-noir crime thriller set in the desolate landscapes of 1990s Montana. Starring Scoot McNairy as a desperate salesman turned drug runner, Kit Harington as his reckless accomplice, and Josh Lucas as a menacing cartel boss, the film promises a raw, high-stakes plunge into a world of betrayal and violence. While its strong performances and atmospheric visuals deliver moments of intensity, its predictable plot and underdeveloped characters prevent it from breaking new ground. This review explores why Blood for Dust is a compelling yet flawed addition to the crime thriller genre, earning praise for its execution but criticism for its lack of originality.

Plot Summary: A Descent into Desperation

Blood for Dust follows Cliff (Scoot McNairy), a traveling defibrillator salesman struggling to support his family amidst financial ruin and a troubled past. After losing his job due to resurfacing rumors of an affair and embezzlement scandal, Cliff reconnects with Ricky (Kit Harington), a charismatic but dangerous former colleague now dealing illegal weapons and drugs. Desperate for cash, Cliff agrees to join Ricky in a drug- and gun-running operation for a mid-level cartel boss, John (Josh Lucas). What begins as a simple delivery spirals into a bloodbath when Ricky’s reckless actions ignite a turf war, forcing Cliff to fight for survival in a world he’s ill-prepared to navigate.

The screenplay, written by David Ebeltoft from a story co-crafted with Blackhurst, draws heavily from neo-noir classics like Fargo and No Country for Old Men, blending economic despair with gritty violence. However, its reliance on familiar tropes and a convoluted backstory—revealed through murky flashbacks—makes the narrative feel predictable and occasionally disjointed. Despite these flaws, the film’s tension and pacing keep viewers engaged, especially in its brutal final act.

Cinematography and Atmosphere: Montana’s Bleak Beauty

The film’s strongest asset is its evocative cinematography by Justin Derry, which captures the stark, snowy expanses of Montana with a 1970s-inspired aesthetic reminiscent of Gordon Willis’s work. Long shots of Cliff’s station wagon winding through desolate highways and lingering scenes in seedy strip clubs create a palpable sense of isolation and dread. The wintery Montana backdrop mirrors Cliff’s internal turmoil, enhancing the film’s moody tone. The production design by Rob Ebeltoft and a haunting score by Nick Bohun further amplify the atmosphere, making the setting a character in its own right.

However, the film’s technical execution isn’t flawless. Critics have noted that the climactic shootout is dimly lit, making it hard to discern the action, which undercuts the intensity of the violence. Despite these hiccups, the sleek filmmaking keeps Blood for Dust visually compelling, even when the story falters.

Performances: A Stellar Cast Shines

Scoot McNairy delivers a standout performance as Cliff, embodying a downtrodden everyman with subtle nuance. His portrayal captures the quiet desperation of a man torn between family duty and moral compromise, making Cliff a flawed yet relatable protagonist. McNairy’s understated expressions and body language convey a depth the script doesn’t always provide, earning praise as one of the film’s highlights.

Kit Harington, stepping away from his Game of Thrones persona, surprises as Ricky, a cavalier arms dealer with a handlebar mustache and a volatile streak. While some reviews critique his accent as bordering on parody, Harington’s menacing charm and unpredictable energy make Ricky a memorable antagonist. His performance is a bold departure, though the script’s lack of depth limits the character’s impact.

Josh Lucas, as the ruthless cartel boss John, delivers a chilling performance in limited screen time, with a terrifying “job interview” scene showcasing his range. Supporting actors like Ethan Suplee, as a stoic henchman, and Nora Zehetner, as Cliff’s wife Amy, add texture, though the film’s male-centric focus sidelines its female characters. Stephen Dorff’s brief role as a former colleague is underwhelming, disappointing fans expecting more screen time.

Themes and Tone: Desperation and Moral Decay

Blood for Dust explores themes of economic desperation, the myth of the American Dream, and the moral compromises born of survival. Cliff’s journey from salesman to criminal reflects a noir archetype, echoing films like Breaking Bad and A Simple Plan. The film’s grim tone, punctuated by bursts of graphic violence, underscores the cost of ambition and greed, though it lacks the humor or wit of its influences, making it feel relentlessly bleak.

While the setup promises a fresh take on the genre, the story’s predictability and underdeveloped subplots—like Cliff’s family struggles and past scandal—prevent it from fully resonating. The film’s refusal to delve deeply into its characters’ motivations leaves viewers wanting more, though its raw intensity keeps it engaging for fans of gritty thrillers.

Reception: A Polarizing Neo-Noir

Blood for Dust premiered at the 2023 Tribeca Film Festival and won Best Feature at the San Diego International Film Festival, earning a 79% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes (based on 51 reviews) and a 58/100 on Metacritic, indicating mixed-to-positive reviews. Critics praise its sleek execution and McNairy’s performance but criticize its formulaic plot and lack of character depth. IMDb users rate it 5.2/10, with some calling it “predictable but enjoyable” for its cinematography and cast, while others find its slow start and murky narrative frustrating. The X post’s enthusiastic 8.4/10 reflects its appeal to action fans, though this contrasts with broader critical sentiment.

Where to Watch Blood for Dust (2023)

As of May 2025, Blood for Dust is available on Disney+, Hulu, and for rent or purchase on Fandango at Home, Amazon Video, Apple TV, and YouTube. Check your preferred platform for regional availability.

Final Verdict: A Solid but Unremarkable Thriller

Blood for Dust (2023) delivers a gritty, atmospheric crime thriller anchored by Scoot McNairy’s nuanced performance and a striking Montana backdrop. Its intense shootouts and strong cast make it a worthwhile watch for neo-noir fans, but its predictable storyline and shallow character development keep it from standing out in a crowded genre. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, its sleek execution and raw energy make it a solid, if forgettable, entry.

Rating: 6.5/10
Perfect for: Fans of Fargo, No Country for Old Men, or gritty crime dramas.
Skip if: You want deep character arcs or a fresh twist on the genre.