Writer/Director Shawn Simmons gives us the Action/Comedy/Thriller Eenie Meanie. It tells us that damaged people do damaging things. Yet another satisfying, yet ultimately depressing, story that features Samara Weaving, daughter of Hugo. Weaving has been a personal favorite since the 2019 Black Comedy Horror film Ready or Not. In terms of acting, she shows the same skill set as her famous father and rarely disappoints.
Eenie Meanie Story
Dad Meanie introduces young Eenie into a life of crime. He turns her into an accessory at the obscenely early age of 14. She becomes an infamous getaway driver for bank jobs, robberies, et al. She is trying to go straight after a stint in prison. Unfortunately for her, the past comes calling.
The Cast
Samara Weaving is Eenie.
Karl Glusman is John.
Andy Garcia is Nico.
Steve Zahn is Dad Meanie.
Jermaine Fowler is The Chaperone.
Marshawn Lynch is Perm.
Cameo of the Year
Randall Park as Leo.
Let’s Talk Eenie Meanie
Some folks are calling this a feminist empowerment project. It does center around “strong” females. However, there is a lot more going on here. For a start Eenie is a “bad” girl trying to go straight. The film is more about her journey than an overall all empowering banner for women in general.
We learn that the young getaway driver was pretty much born into her situation. Along the way, we are reintroduced to her former boyfriend and damaged hero, John.
Eenie Meanie is an almost literal roller coaster of a ride. We are treated to a lot of violence, some of which is tragically funny, and car chases. Amazingly, this “light” film about one person’s redemption, is ultimately a downer.
There is no happily ever after here, despite the final scenes that roll before the end credits. Eenie has rid herself of her “demons.” In her battle to overcome, though, there is a bit of tragedy. Most tragic of all is John. The guy who saves her from two sexual predators years ago, turns out to be a colossal screw up.
Shocking
The moment that John reveals he never lost his “true colours” is the most shocking in the film. It comes completely out of left field. We are left breathless with its audacity. Just as Eenie is shocked by this action, we are, in that moment, right there with her.
Not Completely Depressing
The film is obviously not all sunshine and rainbows. It is about crime and those who commit it after all. It is basically about truth. Eenie must learn that she can overcome her issues herself. She needs no real outside help. In essence, while the movie is a bit depressing, it is about realizing one’s true self.
The Verdict
Eenie Meanie is a solid 5 star effort. The stunts rock, the FX; that appear to be mostly practical are refreshing and the acting is spot on. Oddly, the powers that be opted to stream this on Hulu. *I have often referred to Hulu as the place where “film’s go to die.” This is another exception to my “rule.” Head on over and check this one out. If you are not a Samara Weaving fan already, you will be after watching this.
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