‘Shotgun’ is powerful yet understated

“Shotgun Stories,” which traces three very different brothers whose bond is tested by a vengeful eruption with another family, is an understated gem.

Writer-director Jeff Nichols, making his feature debut, has created a richly textured world. The air is palpably heavy; the film flows at a calm, rural Arkansas pace. In one scene, the camera captures a quietly ominous conversation as a cloud passes under the sun. The fine detail of the setting could be achieved only by a native, which Nichols is. But simmering beneath is a lifelong feud between two sets of half brothers, ignited by their father’s death.

The film allows questions to go unanswered and background to be conveyed implicitly. The later set of brothers are named Stephen and Matt; the older boys, abandoned in their youth with their mother, are stuck with “Son,” “Boy” and “Kid” -- marginalized in their identities.

Even before menace creeps in, the film gently surprises, whether with nonchalant revealing of character quirks or no-nonsense dialogue. Nichols’ spare but expressive language hits the center of every pitch. The performances are emotional without being overwrought.

“Shotgun Stories” is a cautionary tale about revenge, but more than that, it is a beautiful, authentic-feeling portrait of a family and a place. Nichols is a talent to watch.

--

“Shotgun Stories.” MPAA rating: PG-13 for violence, thematic elements and brief strong language. Running time: 1 hour, 32 minutes. At Laemmle’s Sunset 5, 8000 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, (323) 848-3500.