Lawless, for all its flaws, delivers a very entertaining trip through a particular landmark of time and space. Based on true events, and with John Hillcoat at the helm, the film gives us a glimpse at life during Prohibition-era Virginia, and the strange circumstances the nation’s dry time created in many parts of the country.

The film ultimately suffers from what seems to be a certain odd spin on having delusions of grandeur by screenwriter Nick Cave, who isn’t satisfied to simply tell the story, but has to push many elements beyond the point of interest and what is legitimately believable and watchable.

Still, that opening should be read too harshly, because the problems I had with the film didn’t detract overly from the general enjoyment to be found. I suspect most will have a good time with this one, and even the film doesn’t ultimately impress,...