Derek Kolstad

Normal (2025): Nobody Should Miss Bob Odenkirk’s Latest Action Flick

Posted on by Jack Drees

“Normal” is directed by Ben Wheatley (Meg 2: The Trench, Free Fire) and stars Bob Odenkirk (Nobody, Breaking Bad), Henry Winkler (Happy Days, Arrested Development), and Lena Headey (300, Game of Thrones). This film centers around a sheriff who has a history of taking temporary jobs in one town to the text. His latest gig is in a small town by the name of Normal, Minnesota, where things go haywire as soon as he finds himself trying to deal with a bank robbery.

Remember “Nobody?” Remember how sick that movie was? Turns out Bob Odenkirk is not done being an action star. Sure, he came back for a sequel, but frankly, I think a man of his talents deserves better. This is no diss on Bob Odenkirk. He can do no wrong. He is a fine actor with quite a bit of range. As much as I like “Nobody,” I was interested to see that Odenkirk was headlining a brand new movie, “Normal.”

What makes “Normal” stand out is its quieter vibe. Whether it has to do with the wintry backdrop or the occasional delight that rises due to seeing Ulysses solve minor issues or obstacles for the town’s citizens, the film, despite being violent, simultaneously feels cozy.

This film is written by Derek Kolstad, whose previous credits include the “Nobody” films, and before that, the first three “John Wick” titles. Those two franchises carry a similar DNA considering they are fast-paced, obnoxious, and star somewhat older men who know how to shoot. This is not to say “Normal” is not in any way similar to those movies. In fact, speaking of fast pace, this movie is incredibly tight. There are also plenty of gun fights, not to mention creative kills. If anything, the kills are almost the selling point of this movie. Those are the parts of the film that if I were a general moviegoer and I saw this in the middle in its run, would have me flocking down the streets yelling about it. Perhaps I would look like a lunatic that promotes violence, but I am sure that people will understand what I am talking about once they see the film.

Unfortunately, this film, which has been out for several weeks now, has not received the widest audience. It had a soft opening weekend, and has only made about a quarter of its budget back. The film so far has made more than $5 million, but its budget appears to be less than $20 million. I hope the film has a boost on its way, perhaps on PVOD or through a streaming service, perhaps even cable, because as someone who got to see this in a theater with a large crowd, which I do not think a lot of people can say, it is an experience.

I had the privilege of seeing this movie at a giant theatre during the Miami Film Festival, and so many people were having a blast watching everything play out. I have no idea about the people around me, but I was quite surprised with how much flair this film delivered by the end of it. This film is as exciting as can be. If you are coming to “Normal” solely to watch Odenkirk kick all kinds of butt, this film gives you that in spades. If you are coming for a little bit more than that, there are some aspects that are properly delivered.

Not to say that “Normal” is by any means the comedy of the year, but there are quite a few laughs to be had in this movie. Some of those laughs are due to the kills. If you told me that Quentin Tarantino stepped in to direct a few scenes just to get some of the sickest violence one could possibly put into a frame, I would believe you. The film has a knack for more conventional attempts at humor too. One of my favorite gags in the film involves Henry Winkler’s character of Mayor Kibner, who despite living in this film’s titular small town for years, says he never saw a moose. In fact, we find out that Odenkirk’s character, Sheriff Ulysses, saw a moose, and told him about it, thus infuriating him.

“Normal” is, fittingly, set in the fictional town of Normal, Minnesota. This small town tends to play a large part in the film. It is basically a character of its own. One of my favorite things about it is its welcome sign that reads, “We like it here.” The name almost comes off as a joke considering the film’s concept, which sees the town’s newcomer, Ulysses, realize that there is something abnormal afoot in what seems to be a humble, tiny community. As for what that thing is, I will keep it vague, but the film does a good job at giving the sense that its community is proud and tight-knit. You get a sense of hometown pride in “Normal,” whether it is easy to side with such pride is another story.

Going back to what I said about this movie being tight, it is kind of a blessing as there is very little fluff. And whatever fluff there is, happens to work. I immensely enjoyed this film’s climax as it brings a lot of people into the same room, slowly builds up the tension, and gets into the chaotic violence fest I was hoping to see. I did not get popcorn for this movie. I am not even sure if my venue even had popcorn. Miami traffic sucks, so I almost missed the start of the movie, so I did not even have time to check if the place had a concessions stand. But if I had a bucket of popcorn in my seat, I would be shoving it in my mouth like a madman because this sequence is quite entertaining. Again, this movie feels like a blessing. But some things with blessings have curses too. Yes, “Normal” is a fun watch, but I wish it went on longer. If anything, it means Ben Wheatley and crew did a good job with the material. It left me wanting more. This does not necessarily mean I want a sequel to this movie. Though if a “Normal 2” were to happen, or perhaps another story featuring Ulysses in a different town, sign me up.

In the end, “Normal” is anything but. It is chaotic, it is bloody, it ever so slowly builds its excitement. I felt the same way watching this movie that Odenkirk did while navigating the small town. It seems quiet at first, but along the way, things just crank up. While not exactly the same kind of movie as “Nobody,” “Normal,” which also has Bob Odenkirk as the lead, sometimes gives off a similar feel. If you like Bob Odenkirk, as well as “Nobody,” then “Normal” is a nice addition to your watchlist. If you are ready for some bonkers action, you will not be disappointed. I am going to give “Normal” a 7/10.

“Normal” is now playing in theaters. Tickets are available in select locations. If you cannot catch it in a theater, please make an effort to check it out on VOD starting May 18th.

Thanks for reading this review! I just want to remind everyone that my latest episode of Movie Requests is now available to watch! In this episode, I ask “The Mandalorian” star Katee Sackhoff what movie she thinks I should watch, and she picked the 1952 western “High Noon.” I had never seen it. Frankly, despite my love for all kinds of cinema, my western game could be stronger, so I thank her for the recommendation! What did I think of the movie? Watch the episode to find out! And if you enjoy the video, leave a like, leave a comment, and subscribe to my YouTube channel that way you can catch more episodes of Movie Requests down the line.

My next review is going to be for “Lorne!” Stay tuned! Also coming soon, I will be sharing my thoughts on “Michael,” “Deep Water,” “Animal Farm,” and “Mortal Kombat II.” If you want to see these reviews and more from Scene Before, follow the blog either with an email or WordPress account! Also, check out the official Facebook page! I want to know, did you see “Normal?” What did you think about it? Or, have you seen “Nobody?” Perhaps even “Nobody 2?” Tell me your thoughts on those movies! Let me know down below! Scene Before is your click to the flicks!

Nobody (2021): Bob Odenkirk Seeks Revenge Over a Kitty Cat Bracelet, and It’s Worth the Watch

Posted on by Jack Drees

“Nobody” is directed by Ilya Naishuller, who also directed one of the first films I reviewed on Scene Before, “Hardcore Henry,” and stars Bob Odenkirk (Breaking Bad, Nebraska), Connie Nielsen (Wonder Woman, The Following), Aleksei Serebryakov (Leviathan, McMafia), RZA (The Dead Don’t Die, Mr. Right), Michael Ironside (Superman: The Animated Series, Turbo Kid), Colin Salmon (Tomorrow Never Dies, Krypton), and Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future, Clue). This is a revenge flick centered around a guy named Hutch Mansell, who seemingly lives a normal life. He has his job that he goes to every day, he has his routine, he his wife and kids at home. He’s in some ways, a typical suburban dad. Note: I said some ways, because hidden behind this persona is a past where he was an auditor, or an assassin who kills people that are impossible to arrest. But he left his action-packed past so he can have the family he has now. But just because he has a family, does not mean life is completely quiet, as the house suffers through an overnight break-in. Hutch lets the invading party go off with select items, to where he’s questioned by his son and others in his life. However, not long after, Hutch goes on a revenge quest, where he somewhat harkens back to his days as an assassin.

There is something about revenge movies that are pleasing. Minus a couple things that are intertwined here and there, these movies are mostly simple, action-filled experiences that bring on the fun. One of my favorite movies of the past year is a revenge film, albeit much different regarding plot and story, specifically “Promising Young Woman.” But I saw the trailer, both green band and red band, for “Nobody” a number of times, and all I wanted out of this film was some cool fights, funny one-liners, and fast-paced scenes. And that is exactly what I got, and maybe a little more.

– New York, NY – 10/8/16 – Derek Kolstad (Screenwriter) at John Wick: Chapter 2 Lionsgate’s New York Comic Con Panel -Pictured: Derek Kolstad (Screenwriter) -Photo by: Marion Curtis/StarPix

This film comes from writer and producer Derek Kolstad, who also wrote one of the most iconic action movies of the 2010s, “John Wick.” Now I like “John Wick,” I’ll even admit that the sequels honestly are an improvement over the original to an extent, they know how to have more fun and just go nuts. “Nobody” perhaps to a lack of surprise, takes some of the beats that “John Wick” manages to have in its movie. But “Nobody” gets away with it for some new things it introduces and the fact that it puts the idea of making an entertaining action thriller first. Despite the similarities, “Nobody” never feels like it is trying too hard to pay homage to or copy and paste from something else, it is its own thing. But it does not mean there are not clichés. Some include having the main character have something be taken away, the main character going back to their roots to move the plot along, and occasional quips from one character to another. These are not disses on the movie, after all, these clichés were done well! It made for an entertaining product.

To say this is a “John Wick”-like movie would be an understatement. In fact, like glimmers of “John Wick,” which mostly stands out to me for being fun, it also aces in regard to its serious moments as well. One of the more iconic moments of “John Wick” is that moment when the title character’s dog gets killed, which is a catalyst for him seeking revenge. This movie has an animal-related revenge story as well. Although it has nothing to do with a dog, or a living creature.

It has to do with a kitty-cat bracelet.

The reveal for this is almost the best part of the movie and one of the reasons why “Nobody” aces its goal of not always having to take itself seriously. Now, I already knew that from the trailer that this would be in the film, but I did not expect it to be as paramount as it is. I do not want to go into complete spoiler territory, but the reveal for this in the film plays out like a scene from a Fox primetime cartoon like “The Simpsons” or “Family Guy.” The moment that Hutch’s young daughter, Abby (Paisley Cadorath), starts complaining that her precious item is gone and specifies exactly what that item is, is almost flat out hysterical. Because of ALL THINGS, this… Kitty cat bracelet, is the one thing that we see pushes Hutch over the edge and gets him to go out and bust some heads. Not having a watch stolen, not having money stolen, not having the house simply broken into at night.

A kitty cat bracelet.

I mean, seriously! Hutch’s reaction kind of reminded me of “The Simpsons” and “Family Guy” because I can totally see a scene in either one of those two shows where Homer Simpson or Peter Griffin respectively hear something as simple as a show being cancelled or the McRib being off the menu at McDonald’s again and that causes them to go on a rampage. If there is a film that I think could work well as inspiration for an animated spinoff, “Nobody” is an arguable contender.

But at the same time, this is a film that does the best it can to deliver a gritty, well-shot, and violent thriller every step of the way. The action in this film is well-choreographed, I can mostly tell who is fighting who, and it occasionally gets a laugh out of me. There is a scene on a city bus that nails this description.

One of the best parts of Bob Odenkirk’s character of Hutch is his relatability. Again, kind of like “John Wick” if you ask me. I got to stop saying that. He’s a 9 to 5 guy and a family man at the same time, so I would say that he is just a simple guy with extraordinary qualities, he’s a well thought out protagonist. I could buy into all of his motives at the beginning despite what others say about him. Think about it, when someone breaks into your house, what matters to you? Yes, your possessions are important, but living to fight another day is a priority as well, perhaps one that is even greater. Not to mention, he had a family to protect too. Sometimes you are in a situation where you have to pick your poison. I really like Hutch and I would not mind seeing him in a sequel.

Actor Christopher Lloyd arrives at Smiles from the Stars: A Tribute to the Life and Work of Roy Scheider at The Beverly Hills Hotel on April 4, 2009 in Beverly Hills, California. A Tribute To The Life And Work Of Roy Scheider – Red Carpet The Beverly Hills Hotel Beverly Hills, California United States April 4, 2009 Photo by John Shearer/WireImage.com To license this image (57129316), contact WireImage.com

Now Bob Odenkirk is great in this movie. So is Connie Nielsen, so is just about everyone else, but I also want to point out the comedic genius of Christopher Lloyd. To me, he will forever be known as Emmett Brown, that is inevitable, but Lloyd slaps in this film, mainly due to how his character is written. I will not say much, but we see him as this elderly man who just happens to be Hutch’s father, but without going into detail, he has some other qualities to him that almost come out of nowhere. Just watch the movie, but there is a moment that will likely have many of you grinning like an idiot around the halfway point or so. You’ll see what I mean.

Although I do want to talk about one thing. Per usual, I saw this movie a month ago. I hope I get to a point where I can review stuff I have recently seen, but this is just the way it is. But even though this is a fun action movie that is incredibly balls to the wall, it’s rated R, it goes for the edge, there is one presence that is lacking in this film, and that is a threat. Yes, there is one in the film, but the antagonistic side of things is honestly somewhat forgettable. At the same time though, the protagonistic presence is hypnotizing, which sort of makes up for the flaw. And, this once again, harkens back to “John Wick.” It has great buildup, and even though the climax is entertaining, the antagonistic side is not that memorable. I don’t know, maybe it is just me.

In the end, “Nobody” is a movie that everybody should see. That is if you really like action and violence that is taken up a notch. I keep making comparisons to “John Wick,” but this does not mean that “Nobody” is a bad movie, it just means that a lot of the great things that appear in “John Wick” make an appearance in here as well and it ends up being beneficial. Great action, likable characters, fast-paced editing, and stellar cinematography. What more could you ask for? I would definitely watch “Nobody” a second time, maybe on a Friday night when I am at home or something and I am going to give it a 7/10.

“Nobody” is now playing in select theaters and is also available through VOD services such as Xfinity On Demand, VUDU, and Prime Video to rent or buy.

Thanks for reading this review. My next review is for the battle of the year. Not humans vs. coronavirus, not Pepsi vs. Coke, and DEFINITELY not “Tom & Jerry,” it is “Godzilla vs. Kong.” I saw the movie in March, once more in April, and I cannot wait to finally give you my thoughts on it! Everybody’s seeing it, so I might as well pitch in and do my part to be in the conversation! That review should be up by next week, but we shall see. Tonight I watched “Mortal Kombat,” which is in theaters and on HBO Max. The film is based on the popular video game franchise, and I will have my thoughts on that soon. Be sure to follow Scene Before either with an email or WordPress account, and check out the Facebook page so you can stay tuned for more great content! I want to know, did you see “Nobody?” What did you think about it? Or, what is an item that means very little to other people, but you would freak out if you discovered it was lost? For me, it would have to be a particular external hard drive. Data is very important to me. Let me know down below! Scene Before is your click to the flicks!