The Aggression Scale

In the 2012 film "The Aggression Scale," audiences are introduced to a blend of action, thriller, and crime drama. This independent film directed by Steven C. Miller focuses on the plight of Owen (Ryan Hartwig), a teenage boy who has a history of violent behavior due to his troubled past. However, although he may be prone to aggression, he is also fiercely protective of his mother.

The movie opens with the release of a notorious hitman named Lloyd from prison. He is determined to retrieve a large sum of money that he believes is owed to him, but when he discovers that it is no longer in the hands of the people he trusted, he takes matters into his own hands. His trail leads him to the small town where Owen and his family live.

In the meantime, a group of hired killers has been dispatched to locate and eliminate the people who took Lloyd's money. The killers, led by the sinister and calculating Bellavance (played by Ray Wise), are brutal and bloodthirsty, with no qualms about killing anyone who crosses their path.

As the killers descend upon the town, Owen becomes aware of their true intentions and realizes that he must protect his family at all costs. Armed with an impressive set of survival skills, Owen begins to take on the killers one by one, working his way up to Bellavance himself.

The tension builds throughout the film, with a series of intense and violent confrontations between Owen and the killers. What sets this movie apart is the unexpected ways in which Owen manages to outsmart his opponents, using everything from improvised traps to clever diversions to stay one step ahead.

The movie also explores the dynamic between Owen and his step-sister Lauren (played by Fabianne Therese), who at first seems like an unlikely ally. However, as the violence escalates, Lauren reveals herself to be an equally resourceful and determined fighter, proving to be a valuable asset to Owen's efforts.

"The Aggression Scale" offers a unique and captivating take on the action thriller genre. The film creates a tense and suspenseful atmosphere, with a blend of intense action and emotionally complex characters. Ryan Hartwig does an excellent job portraying the role of a troubled young man determined to protect his loved ones, while Fabianne Therese shines as a strong female character who is just as capable and resilient as her male counterpart.

Ray Wise gives a powerful performance as the menacing Bellavance, portraying a cold and calculating killer with a ruthless agenda. His portrayal of this character adds an additional layer of complexity to the story, creating a compelling antagonist who is both terrifying and fascinating to watch.

Overall, "The Aggression Scale" is a smart and thrilling film that keeps audiences hooked from start to finish. It offers a fresh take on the familiar themes of revenge and survival, with unexpected twists and turns that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats. With its engaging characters, intense action, and excellent performances, this movie is a must-see for fans of the action thriller genre.