Wicked ways of several people weave together in The Devil All the Time. The messy characterizations are told through a jumbled timeline. Thankfully, there is a narration throughout the film to keep the story straight.
Though there is an ensemble of characters, the story revolves around Arvin (Tom Holland). After losing his mother (Haley Bennett) and father (Bill Skarsgård), Arvin is sent to live with his relatives and stepsister, Leonora (Eliza Scanlen). Arvin does all he can to protect his sister from the evils in this world, even fighting off her bullies. Unfortunately, he can’t save her from a predator disguised as a preacher played by Robert Pattinson.
We also meet a corrupted sheriff (Sebastian Stan) and a serial killer duo played by Jason Clarke and Riley Keough throughout the story. The film guides you through the tangled web of these evil characters, and by the end, everything unfolds in a truly stunning way.
The Devil All the Time could be described as gruesome and gory. It can also be seen as an allegory about extremism in religion. Because of this, it could be an immediate turn-off for a lot of people. But if you can make it through the graphic nature, the story is truly jaw-dropping and will have you analyzing its meaning.
The film is long, coming in at a little over two hours. That being said, there was never a moment wasted in this movie; every frame was filled with story. The non-linear timeline adds to the suspense and keeps the film moving.
The acting was outstanding; Tom Holland completely shreds any piece of Spider-Man from his skin. Robert Pattinson will leave you stunned from the minute he opens his mouth and, once again, proves he’s more than the vampire that made him famous.
The Devil All the Time is a film that will stick with you after the credits roll. It has scenes that are hard to watch because it looks at the dark side of human nature. Every character thinks they’re doing the wrong thing for the right reason. This film may not be for everyone, but If you can make it through the relentless violence, the haunting story is worth it.
Review: The Devil All the Time
Score
Review Nation Score
The Devil All the Time is is told through a non-linear timeline with outstanding acting. It is graphic and violent, making it, at times, hard to watch. But the story is haunting and will stick with you after the credits roll.
