South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival – Lott (Lance Henriksen) has taken on an interesting career path in the last chapters of his life. Knowing he’s in his twilight years, he takes a new tact towards profession and vocation. When most people would be retiring and moving to Florida to enjoy the beach and the sun, he pivots to crime scene destruction and desecration. Driven by his belief in the power of forgiveness, as unconditional and unconventional as possible, he intercepts police and investigators to offer criminals a chance at redemption.

911 calls are monitored by Lott and his team, who pick up on suspicious stories and head to the scene to offer a chance at freedom and forgiveness. However, when a call goes just a little sideways, the team has to suddenly defend themselves and their calling.

Brilliant as ever, Henriksen embodies everything you expect from him – heart and soul, begrudging but deep kindness, unconventional wit and humor, and of course that wonderful voice. In a small budget, big concept crime film like this, it’s refreshing to see someone as iconic and beloved taking the screen by storm. It works to the immense benefit of the film, supported by a daring and delightful ensemble cast. There’s not a weak link in this cast, and it’s believable that Lott’s group is a powerfully tight knit little crew.

Interesting art direction and an incredible poster just bolster Reklaw’s odds at becoming a cult favorite. I instantly pictured cosplay groups in the soon-to-be-iconic costumes, patrolling convention floors. Similar to Saw, Reklaw shines a bright light on our morals and what is “acceptable”. Empathy and forgiveness, and resilience, are the themes that drive this brilliant narrative – and I only wish we could get a series based on it.

Reklaw reviewed as part of our South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival coverage.

8 out of 10