Scrapper (2013)

Scrapper Poster

Did you know that scrap metal is America's 4th largest export? Well, Hollis Wallace does, and he makes his quiet living trolling the back alleys of Seattle looking for cast-off copper, aluminum and other valuable metals. Hollis uses all the tricks of the metal scrapping trade to earn his living and navigate through a fascinating and rowdy world that few pay any attention to.

Film Overview
"Scrapper" is an American drama movie released in 2013, directed by Brady Hall and starring Michael Beach, Aidan Gillen, and Anna Giles. The movie was composed by Barry Gifford and Brady Hall with its setting in Washington State's Puget Sound area. It is an interesting story that delves into the lives of scrappers-- individuals who scavenge disposed of metal.

Plot
The film starts with Hollis Ransom (Michael Beach), a reformed outlaw who earns a living by scavenging and offering scrap from decommissioned ships in Washington. Hollis spends his days diving undersea to stash metal scraps that he later offers to earn money, unconcerned of the lethal nature of his task. In his singular existence, Hollis experiences multiple difficulties from isolation to dealing with PTSD.

At the heart of the story is Hollis's unanticipated father figure role to a disenfranchised teenager named Swan (Anna Giles). Swan, overlooked by her drug-addict mother, is a struggling but durable woman who chooses to flee from her hostile house environment. She befriends Hollis when their courses cross in the dangerous life of scrapping in Pacific Northwest scrapyards. Hollis ultimately takes Swan in, and they develop an uncommon yet affectionate father-daughter bond.

Characters and Cast Performance
Michael Beach plays Hollis remarkably, improving a character portrayed as an aging loner seeking his lost past. Anna Giles gives a good efficiency as the young Swan, integrating vulnerability with a rebellious spirit. The duo's performances do much to imbue the stark realism in the intricacy of relationships and the process of healing through human connections.

Themes
"Scrapper" is an intimate drama checking out styles of forgiveness, redemption, and the restorative power of non-traditional families. It highlights the day-to-day struggles of people surviving on the fringe of society while also examining an individual's capability to find peace despite a terrible past. It unveils the surprise world of the ditching industry with all its dangers, sacrifices, and the somewhat romantic concept of making something valuable out of what's considered waste.

Cinematography and Tone
Director Brady Hall weaves the story together with a mix of beautiful cinematography and gritty realism. The movie's visual is among contrast-- appeal in desolation-- with the filmmakers portraying the elegance of the Pacific Northwest wilderness versus the grim, rusty scrapyards where Hollis and Swan scavenge. Hall does an outstanding task of balancing the story with abundant and vivid visuals, delivering profound moments of emotion in a hushed, thoughtful tone.

Conclusion
Eventually, "Scrapper" is a bleak yet hopeful tale of two problematic characters seeking redemption and a 2nd opportunity. It analyzes life on the margins of society while commemorating the strength of the human spirit. The movie uncovers an uncommon world within the scrap market while revealing the transformative power of unexpected relationships. The audience is left with an echo of the struggles but a durable wish for Hollis and Swan as they navigate their complex lives.

Top Cast

  • Michael Beach (small)
    Michael Beach
    Hollis Wallace
  • Aidan Gillen (small)
    Aidan Gillen
    Ray
  • Anna Giles
    Swan
  • Joanna Angel (small)
    Joanna Angel
    Naomi
  • Jennifer Lanier
    Mother
  • Rachel Blanchard (small)
    Rachel Blanchard
    Sharon
  • Basil Harris (small)
    Basil Harris