Sword of Trust Review

NR

Forager Films

1 Hr and 29 Minutes

Director: Lynn Shelton | writers: Lynn Shelton and Mike O'Brien

Cast: Marc Maron, Jon Bass, Michaela Watkins, Jillian Bell, Toby Huss, Dan Bakkedahl, Tim Paul, Whitmer Thomas

When Cynthia and Mary (Jillian Bell and Michaela Watkins) show up to collect Cynthia’s inheritance from her deceased grandfather, the only item she’s received is an antique sword that he believed to be proof that the South won the Civil War. The two attempt to unload the object to a curmudgeonly pawnshop owner Mel (Marc Maron) and his man-child sidekick Nathaniel (Jon Bass). When Mel and Nathaniel discover there’s a black market for the relic, the two pairs reluctantly join forces to sell this rarefied ‘prover item’ to the highest bidder. The adventure that ensues takes the four of them on a wild journey into the depths of conspiracy theory and Southern disillusionment.

This is going to be a short and simple review, for Sword of Trust is a short and simple movie, yet one of the most enjoyable features I’ve seen at SXSW. Given its very detailed and exciting premise, director and co-screenwriter Lynn Shelton provides a rather laid back comedy. While it may sound disappointing that not much goes on, it’s still enjoyable and fun to witness, mostly due to the four central leads’ performances, how they’re characterized, and Shelton’s ability to let her cast emit the energy that most comedies don’t.

Shelton has worked with comedic actor Marc Maron in many projects, and in Sword of Trust he’s the truly the funniest and most dimensional character. The film establishes all of the characters very early on before they are thrust into this journey together, but the most developed is Mel who has dark demons in his closet, which explains why his character is the curmudgeon that he his. Personally, I love curmudgeonly characters, for they’re who I relate to the most, especially if they’re surrounded by idiots. That’s why I personally love comics such as Maron and Bill Burr, for they say it like it is and call people out on their bullshit. Hell, even when it comes to animated series, I find myself relating to those types of characters more. Why do you think more people start to relate to Squidward as they get older?

Maron is funny as hell and one of the greatest comedic talents working today, for he delivers a great performance as he calls out everyone’s idiocracy no matter how dire the situation gets. Even better is the fact that he’s paired up with an assistant named Nathaniel (Bass) who is literally the Patrick to his Squidward. Like Patrick, he’s a lovable idiot who means well despite his various random actions. Portrayed by the funny Jon Bass (who I haven’t seen in any big projects aside from Baywatch), I’m glad he finally gets to exhibit his talents. Most of the side-splitting humor stems from them.

Seeing Jillian Bell and Michaela Watkins portray acquaintances-turned-friends in the astounding Sundance film Brittany Runs a Marathon to now this SXSW film where they’re partners is the best glo-up I’ve seen this year in the span of two months. Can Bell and Watkins work together in every movie from now on? Because they truly bring the best out of each other in both the character portrayal and their performances. Seriously, it is 2019 and I swear we are living in the year of Jillian Bell. This is Jillian’s year and we are just witnessing it. Through her performance as Cynthia, Bell proves once again that she is a talented and versatile performer. Watkins is already perfection. I mean, if you’ve seen Casual or her work on SNL, you’re already aware of what she can do. The actresses are so friggin’ adorable as a couple and their country cadence is just splendid. Through the dialect you hear the southern accent, but never for a moment did their voices go over-the-top. It remains grounded and authentic considering the film’s setting.

Most of the positives I have towards this film are the comedic actors exhibiting their individual talents, and it’s fun to witness thanks to Shelton’s direction.

There aren’t any true progressive arcs to any of the characters, but they do have a dimension to them. Even towards the climax, the supposed antagonist ends up being lovable. All of these characters are people you would love to befriend and have a beer with. To be honest, I would like to see more of them.

The film starts off pretty slow and, while Sheldon establishes these characters well, you don’t really feel much urgency in its plot. It’s very straightforward as the story doesn’t provide much, but it’s the characters and the performance by the cast that makes it enjoyable. Because of how funny the screenplay is and the comedic timing of all the performers, the film moves swiftly. It may start slow and its underwhelming finale drags a bit, but 80% of the time it's just one good ride, so I guess I just spoiled my rating.

Lighthearted, hilarious, heartwarming, and bolstered by the performances of the talented central cast, Sword of Trust is a well written fast-paced comedy bound to entertain and put a smile on your face.

Rating: 4/5 | 80%