Affliction - 1997 - 7/10
Wade, small town sheriff, senses a fatal hunting accident might not be so accidental.
Investigating, however cautiously, is nigh impossible in such a hamlet.
Add that Wade’s mother has been found dead (freezing) in her own home.
Next room, Dad sits drunk. At least he won’t beat her any longer.
Although there are the two boys, Wade and his brother, both abused since childhood.
Less a mystery than a harrowing character study or tortured lives.
Difficult and painful cinema.
I once listened to a Q&A with director Paul Schrader: Casting Coburn was a coup, as they needed someone who would seem physically imposing to Nolte.