“Desperation Road” (2023) starring Garrett Hedlund, Willa Fitzgerald, Ryan Hurst, Woody McClain and Mel Gibson / Z-View

Desperation Road (2023)

Director: Nadine Crocker

Screenplay:  Michael Farris Smith; based on DESPERATION ROAD by Michael Farris Smith.

Stars:  Garrett Hedlund, Willa Fitzgerald, Ryan Hurst, Woody McClain and Mel Gibson.

Tagline: The Road to Redemption is Twisted.

The Plot…

Maben, a homeless single mother, is traveling with her young daughter.  Maben thought she had hit rock bottom.  She’s about to find out how wrong she can be.  Now Maben and her child are on the run from the law.

Russell Gaines was recently released from prison after seven years. Russell, while driving drunk, caused an accident that killed a man named Jason.  Jason’s brothers feel seven years in prison wasn’t enough.  Russell killed their brother and they will have their revenge.

Russell and Maben cross paths.  Russell feels sorry for Maben and her daughter (although he doesn’t know Maben’s full story).  Russell offers them a place to stay until they get back on their feet.

Russell’s troubles and Maben’s problems are on a collision course.

Thoughts (beware of spoilers)…

Don’t let the movie poster fool you.  Mel Gibson’s role is more of a glorified cameo.

Desperation Road (2023) rates 3 of 5 stars.