She Rides Shotgun Review: A Father-Daughter Connection Amidst Violence

      Based on Jordan Harper's novel and featuring a screenplay by Harper along with Ben Collins and Luke Piotrowski, She Rides Shotgun is a gripping thriller directed by Nick Rowland, showcasing Taron Egerton in a powerful and captivating lead role. He portrays Nate, recently released from prison and quickly on the run from Aryan Steel, a neo-Nazi gang he crossed paths with while incarcerated to secure his release. Now, there's a hit out for Nate and his entire family. After picking up his 11-year-old daughter Polly (Ana Sophia Heger) from school, they hit the road, speeding away while trying to figure out how to survive. From a stolen vehicle to a budget motel to a friend's home, the pair begins to learn about one another for the first time.

      Rowland crafts an entertaining, high-stakes narrative, altering much from the original material in what seems to be an effort to clarify motivations and character developments. Rob Yang delivers a commendable performance as Detective Park, bringing depth to the "one good cop" trope, while John Carroll Lynch effectively portrays the irredeemably evil "God of Slabtown," a villain who, regrettably, doesn't have enough screen time to leave a significant impression.

      The stark and harsh New Mexico backdrop reflects Nate's emotional state. Egerton arguably delivers one of his finest performances in this role, embodying the movie star persona that Hollywood has sought from him—somewhat ironic considering the film's low-key, independent style. Ana Sophia Heger also rises to the occasion, portraying a child caught in a dire situation with the right degree of complexity.

      Some suspension of disbelief is necessary to navigate the film's third act (allowing for nuance in certain characters who previously seemed to lack moral reservations), yet She Rides Shotgun maintains an urgent and effective pace. A particularly unsettling scene involving Park and Polly is interrupted by a threatening third party, with director of photography Wyatt Garfield skillfully utilizing a small hotel room.

      Rowland has a solid grasp of what works in his film—primarily the dynamic between Nate and Polly. There's genuine chemistry between Egerton and Heger in their numerous interactions, which drives the story forward and deepens audience investment in the stakes. The action sequences also have a purposeful economy, feeling necessary while being well executed. A wide tracking shot of a climactic shootout exemplifies a balance of simplicity and dynamic visuals, showcasing Rowland's adept use of resources.

      Ultimately, She Rides Shotgun succeeds by not overstating its themes. The violent moments are brief and impactful, while revelations and moments of forgiveness are relatively sparse. Harper's original work is a hard-boiled masterpiece, and although Rowland's adaptation modifies and simplifies the source material, it successfully captures its energy and translates it effectively to the screen.

      She Rides Shotgun is set to premiere on Friday, August 1.