The Shadow of Violence

[Cosmo Jarvis] is quietly gripping as Arm.

Despite the claustrophobic entrapment in a violent and hyper-masculine world, 'The Shadow of Violence' is an ultimately moving morality tale announcing a confident new voice in international cinema.

While Jarvis puts a memorable mug to the script's meditations, you have to squint too much to see director Rowland's signature on this broad idea of machismo.

There is just enough ambiguity onscreen, particularly during the movie's early stretch, that the narrative machinery isn't too conspicuous.

This film is so visceral and wrenching.

It's Jarvis whose potential star power leaps out at you.

Rowland’s direction throughout is clean and deliberate, rarely showy. He evokes the kind of barren small town where there is almost nothing to fight over, although some still find a way.

While much of the film fails to be captivating, the performance from Jarvis almost single-handedly saves it.

This is a magnificently confident and impressive first feature for director Nick Rowland. It's classically told tale of a man on the wrong side of law, but with a good heart with extra blood-drenched knuckles.

[It] feel two-dimensional. But there's no doubt that Rowland has crafted a powerful and enthralling film that packs a hefty emotional punch.