The Ballad of Buster Scruggs

This short film compilation by the Coens is tied together with one common theme: death. It’s always a treat to get a new film from the Coens, although admittedly the Netflix release makes this a more muted affair. While the entire thing takes place in the “old west”, it doesn’t feel like a western. It’s not fun or action-filled and is more of a measurement of existential wrangling than it is about shoot-em-ups in the OK corral. I like the Tom Waits segment the most, perhaps because it’s the most optimistic? Typically of the brothers, it’s technically flawless and visually innovative, and strikes its creepy and silly chords with snappy timing. But you’ll mosey away from this feeling gloomy -- it’s not a day at the carnival, just like the old west, I suppose.