I thought "White Boy Rick" was okay. McConaughey was excellent as always and the new kid on the block Richie Merritt was believable in his role, even if the character/person he is playing borderlines on "annoying punk" quite often. The film also does a great job establishing a poverty-stricken urban environment. (I can't really speak for the reality that is Detriot...but I never hear good things). From the dimly, orange-lit streets covered in faint layers of snow to some very unpleasant, ghetto housing, the feeling of being on the wrong side of the tracks is very apparent. Aside from that, the story is nothing special. Rick isn't really an interesting character, nor is his story as epic as the trailer made it out to be. He sells drugs and parties and then some bad things happen. If you have seen any period based true crime drama, then you have seen this all before. And like many films in this sub-genre, it often lacks any real focus, jumping from time to time and from event to event. This lack of focus makes the investment in Rick's story not as strong as it begs to be, especially in regards to supporting characters. They all just sorta fade into the background. The most emotional moment is actually at the end...the VERY end. That and perhaps a scene where Rick and his dad try to get Rick's sister out of the life of being a junkie...all while Rick sells drugs anyway. "White Boy Rick" is a well-made film, but not one I see sticking out from others in the genre. Worth one viewing down the line for those interested in its true story roots. Just don't expect to be blown away.
Review of White Boy Rick
