Band of Robbers – Review

Interesting and funny contemporary versions of Huck Finn (Gallner) and Tom Sawyer (Nee) fill Band of Robbers, which is a good effort despite being a low budget affair. Opening with a Mark Twain quote warning against narrative, moral, or plot questioning, the movie transitions quickly into Huckleberry Finn and his narration during a prologue.

A flashback to the Huck and Tom pair as young kids shows the poor duo making up stories of treasure and dreaming up grand new plans. The grand daddy of them all was finding Murrell’s treasure. Rumor has it, the famous pirate booty was squared away somewhere hidden in town.

The boys considered themselves pirates hunting for treasure as they grew up, following their own code. However, they weren’t the only ones searching for loot, and the kids often ran into trouble, or the authorities, but it all remained a dream worth pursuing to them.

Years later, Tom is on the police force as a patrolman, while Huck wears the orange jumpsuit of incarceration. Tom sees himself as a hero and a policeman. Huck is thinking that maybe he wants a family, and that he is never going back to prison on release.

Tom looks for a detective promotion, like his half-brother Sid (Olsen). Once his prison stint ends, Huck is picked up by Tom who reveals his law enforcement choice a swell as bringing him pie and soda. He also informs him about the big surprise party planned.

The old reunited friends decide it is time to grow up, but some things never change, even when they should. Huck moves in with the Widow Douglass (Grant) who demands the straight path and a civilized job. Then, Tom decides to use Huck’s release party as a stage for an opportunity which has presented itself. Maybe they can make real criminals pay, as well as collect a big cash haul. This is officially the first meeting of… the Band of Robbers.

The film is a series of chapters as our main characters reignite their treasure hunting ways, mixing it up with ridiculous characters and getting into wild situations. There is fun, guns and danger, all with a dorky group of friends. Take the oath and join the group.

Band of Robbers has plenty of levity and is mostly a fun time, however does flirt with drama and serious moments. The casting is quite strong despite the lack of budget. The film remains a solid Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer adventure. Hope you are ready to party buddy! Oh wait, I forgot. This is a surprise party. Act surprised.