“I’m coming for all of them.” Neil Maskell takes on the character of Bull, a once feared enforcer, in Paul Andrew Williams’ newest revenge-thriller of the same name. After being absent for ten years, Bull returns to find his son and seek revenge on those who double-crossed him. 

Through flashbacks, we see the moments where Bull spends time with his son bathed in a warmer tone, contrasted with the cooler tone used in the present day, visually indicating that his son was his sole source for happiness, and now all of the happiness has been drained from his life. Maskell does an excellent job of communicating these emotions subtly; though he remains stoic on the outside, his eyes give away just how much pent up anger he holds on the inside.

There’s something so frightening about his physical presence as he remains eerily calm even while committing horrible acts of violence. During these moments, the camera cuts away from the gore so that the audience can get another glance at the look in his eyes. As with most revenge films, the audience feels morally torn about rooting for Bull’s mission, and although this brutality is absolutely reprehensible, Maskell brings such sympathy to the character because it’s clear to see how broken he is.

The film as a whole can at times feel a little clumsy, but any minor faults are shrouded by Maskell, who has lost himself in this character in order to give a truly phenomenal and gritty performance.

Bull is told through fragmented pieces of time, and when it all comes together, it’s truly shocking. Everything is set up for this to be a good old fashioned revenge film, but there’s a twist that is sure to be divisive, and even if it doesn’t feel completely earned, it’s a risky choice that should be applauded.

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: David Hayman, Neil Maskell, Tamzin Outhwaite

DIRECTOR: Paul Andrew Williams

WRITER: Paul Andrew Williams

SYNOPSIS: Bull returns home after 10 years to seek revenge on those who double crossed him.