Many tales have been spun centering on men seeking revenge for injustices done against them. A sea of lone vigilantes too numerous to mention have, through the years, taken up arms against those who’ve invaded their space and taken something they love. The audiences have been drawn, because it feeds into the inherent natural craving they feel for all to be made right.

 

Red, a sleeper film that has recently released on DVD, is one such story with a little twist. What if what means the most in the world to you is Red, your constant companion and best friend? Brian Cox stars as Avery Ludlow, an old man sitting on a fishing bank with his 14 year-old dog. When some local teens come to start harassing him and decide to shoot the dog for the fun of it, Avery’s world is shaken and he spends the rest of the film seeking justice.

 

It doesn’t help that two of the teens in question are the sons of a shady businessman who quickly dismisses Avery’s story (it also doesn’t help the movie that he’s played by Tom Sizemore, but what can you do? Fast forward, I guess). The father not only covers up for the youths but creates a little more drama for Avery to muddle through on his path to justice.

 

Although previews might lead one to think otherwise, the film is at its core a drama about an old man who not only seeks an apology but also seems concerned for the path the teens have chosen. He wants them to confess not only for some sense of vindication but also because it’s the right thing to do. That’s probably what distinguishes him from the Dirty Harrys of the world. At some point, the true villain shifts from careless teens to a father who doesn’t care enough to set them straight.

 

The film is purposefully slow, showcasing Cox’s subtle acting talent. Having played over the top before in films like X Men 2, The Ring and Manhunter (he was the original Hannibal Lecter), the actor is equally comfortable being a sympathetic character.

 

Red is a film with many layers. It’s billed as a movie with a man avenging his dog. Deeper than that, however, it’s a story of a widow clinging to the last good souvenir of his best times and the tragedy of children raised without a strong sense of right and wrong. It’s by no means the film of the year but still a memorable rental that may compel you to go out and hug your own four-legged best friend after watching.

DeWayne Hamby is a New Man reviewer and an associate editor with Christian Retailing magazine. Check out his blog at www.dewaynehamby.com.