Cast
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Michael Paré
as Clay
Trace Adkins
as Ty Stover
Kris Kristofferson
as Billy
Tom Sizemore
as Lavoie
Martin Kove
as Cavendish
Constance Brenneman
as Amelia
Brittany Elizabeth Williams
as Lily
Angelique Kenney
as Frenchie
Kurtis Anton
as Kyle Rutherford
James Logan
as Conductor
Quinton Aaron
as Silas
Natalia Cigliuti
as Nell
Joshua LeBar
as Rig Marlowe
Kaiwi Lyman
as Jed
Michael John Long
as Kipp
Crew
Director
- Timothy Woodward Jr.
Writer
- Mark Esslinger
Reviews
Wuchak
Father relentlessly pursues his enslaved daughter in the gritty Old West
RELEASED IN 2016 and directed by Timothy Woodward Jr., "Traded" stars Michael Paré as a father ruthlessly pursuing his runaway daughter (Brittany Elizabeth Williams) who has fallen prey to slavers in the prostitution trade. Trace Adkins plays an intimidating saloon owner while Kris Kristofferson is on hand as a bartender seeking redemption from the filth he’s forced to live amidst. Tom Sizemore plays a nasty buyer in the slave-whore business.
This is a low-budget Western that has some technical weaknesses, like dubious continuity/editing, but a compelling story, gritty tone, brutal violence and fine locations, costuming & score. If you don’t appreciate dark, violent modern Grade B Westerns like “Hickok” (2017) and “6 Guns” (2010) don’t bother. The plot is obviously a melding of “Hardcore” (1979) and “Taken” (2008) in the Old West, but without the blockbuster resources. There are a lot of UN-pleasant elements as we see what those saloon babes REALLY had to go through in the Old West.
There are some unexpected highlights, like Marie Oldenbourg as “Girl” in a meaty subplot, but the way it concludes (the subplot) is a missed opportunity. As dark and brutal as the movie is, there are thankfully brief rays of light, hope, reverence and (hopefully) happiness.
THE MOVIE RUNS 1 hour 38 minutes and was shot at Paramount Ranch, Agoura, California and areas nearby. WRITER: Mark Esslinger.
GRADE: B-
Apr 26, 2018
Thematic Analysis
Traded represents a fascinating example of Western cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Timothy Woodward Jr. brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2016, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Traded took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 98 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 142 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1004 individual shots.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 109 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2016, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Traded shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 3:10 to Yuma, which focuses more on action than character development, Traded subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like All the Pretty Horses and Cowboy from Lonesome River explore similar territory, Traded stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: June 10, 2016
- Runtime: 1h 38m
Where to Watch
