The Tax Collector

Set in Los Angeles, The Tax Collector is a crime-thriller film made by writer and director David Ayer. Released in 2020, the film blends elements of action and drama to construct an intense, brutal tale of loyalty, family, and gang violence.

The principal characters are David (Bobby Soto) and Creeper (Shia LaBeouf), two ruthless enforcers who work for a mysterious crime lord named Wizard. Their job is to collect the "taxes" owed by various gangs and drug cartels operating in the city, ensuring that their organization remains at the top of the food chain.

David, a family man, dreams of leaving the criminal world behind, but he is beholden to Wizard due to a debt incurred by his father. His life takes a dangerous turn when an old rival named Conejo (Jose Conejo Martin) emerges from Mexico, threatening to upend the delicate balance of power that David and Creeper have established.

As David tries to protect his family from Conejo's violent attacks, he is forced to confront his moral code and question the cost of his loyalty to Wizard. In the end, David must make a difficult choice that will define the rest of his life.

The Tax Collector is a dark, gritty movie that is not for the faint of heart. The tone is bleak and unforgiving, with Ayer emphasizing the harsh realities of gang life and the brutal consequences of living outside the law. The film is also incredibly violent, with several scenes of graphic bloodshed and torture that may disturb some viewers.

However, the movie's real strength lies in its captivating performances. Bobby Soto delivers a standout turn as David, convincingly portraying the character's inner turmoil and emotional journey. Shia LaBeouf, too, is excellent as Creeper, imbuing the role with a quiet intensity and a surprising amount of depth.

The supporting cast is equally impressive. Cinthya Carmona is a revelation as David's wife Alexis, bringing a powerful emotional weight to the film's quieter moments. Martin is suitably menacing as Conejo, while George Lopez surprised many with his proficient performance as a sadistic gang leader.

The Tax Collector is also notable for its impressive visuals. Ayer effectively captures the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles, using dimly lit alleyways and dilapidated buildings to create a sense of foreboding and danger. The film's action scenes are well-staged and thrilling, with Ayer taking advantage of the chaotic nature of gang warfare to create some truly arresting sequences.

Despite its strengths, however, The Tax Collector is not without its flaws. The movie's pacing can be uneven at times, with some scenes feeling bloated while others seem rushed. Additionally, Ayer's script relies heavily on cliches and tired gangster tropes, which may make the film feel derivative to some viewers.

Overall, The Tax Collector is a compelling, if flawed, crime drama that will likely appeal to fans of the genre. The film boasts strong performances and impressive visuals, but is ultimately let down by its uneven pacing and reliance on tired storytelling conventions. Nevertheless, the movie's raw intensity and unflinching violence make it a worthwhile watch for those looking for a gritty, uncompromising glimpse into the world of gang life.