Clark Duke’s directorial debut, Arkansas, is a neo-noir dark comedy that defies expectations with its sinister twist. Unlike his comedic roles in the past, Vaughn takes on a menacing persona, eerily reminiscent of the Coen brothers’ style. Arkansas is a return to form for Vaughn, showcasing his range as a character actor, and Duke’s finest acting role to date.
The film follows Kyle Ribb, a talented drug runner, and his partner Swin, as they navigate the treacherous underworld. When a deal goes awry, they must outmaneuver law enforcement and their employer, the mysterytic and feared gangster Frog. The division of the film into five chapters builds up to Frog’s first appearance, creating an aura of mystery around the character. Vaughn’s casting is flawless, drawing the audience in with familiarity and making Frog’s psychological torment of his underlings more shocking.
Vince Vaughn (Image via Getty)
Vaughn’s menacing performances are a highlight of the film, with his character delivering a sequence of haunting threats that linger long after the credits roll. Frog is a villainous figure, renowned for being deadly, with opponents never given a second chance. The heroes, Ribb and Swin, are often willing to cut corners to get ahead, making them more relatable and emotionally investable.
Arkansas excels at building tension, using technical dialogue to convey the intricacies of a criminal organization. Vaughn’s performance is authentic, drawing on his experience as a character actor. His departure from comedic roles is a welcome change, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
In a world where audiences grew up with Vaughn’s comedy, Arkansas is a radical transition that has him thriving as a character actor. The film’s dark comedy and sinister twist make it a standout in the genre, worth watching for Vaughn’s terrifying performance alone.
