She Rides Shotgun – Review

Fresh out of prison and looking to escape a life of crime, Nathan Mcclusky (Egerton) attempts to leave his criminal gang behind. Unfortunately, all this does is place him and his family in danger, as the criminals decide to put a hit on them. Nate’s daughter Polly (Heger) is immediately scooped up by her father, and the pair try to outrun his past.

In order to survive however, Nate decides to start teaching his eleven-year-old daughter his skills, such as where to target a punch (not the tough forehead, but aim for the softer back), how to watch her surroundings, break into cars and more. Polly grapples with learning, morality, loss, life and her relationship with her criminal father, all while the authorities look for her.

The pair hit the road, looking to lie low and meet up with anyone that may help them, like Charlotte (D’Azion), an ex-gang-tie flame. Of course, the past is never done with a criminal like Nathan, who was in too deep to expect an escape with his daughter. Will Polly be able to learn enough from this man to help them both survive? Will Nathan be able to escape the violence that is headed his way?

The story does not present anything that novel, and I would imagine the details in the book which it is based on may be harrowing at times. This take on the tale is well presented, and very well acted. Egerton absolutely crushes his role, as does the young Heger, and without this pair’s ability the film would not have worked. The pacing is slower, and it is presented as a realistic tale of gritty street life and survival. It is good enough for what it is, however it may not bring you anything all that new with your crime drama experience. It is slower paced and too long, but remains a solid movie.