Collins Jr. takes ‘Jockey’ on an absorbing ride

“Jockey” – “It’s just wear and tear.” – Jackson Silva (Clifton Collins Jr.) Jackson is not referring to car brakes or a pair of jeans.  He races horses for a living, but he’s not speaking about a particular stallion or mare.   Jackson’s body is breaking down because he – in his 40s or 50s – has been a jockey for decades.  A veterinarian takes X-rays of Jackson, and after inspecting the troubling pictures, he recommends that this weathered athlete see a doctor.  Unfortunately, it’s not likely that Jackson has health…

‘Small Town Crime’ is a middling curiosity

“Small Town Crime” – “Well, I was born in a small town.  And I live in a small town.  Probably die in small town.”  –  John Mellencamp, “Small Town” Mike Kendall (John Hawkes) lives in a small town, out west in the high desert, where blue skies reign, the ground sports varied shades of brown and snowcapped peaks hold court in the distance.  Writers/directors Eshom and Ian Nelms filmed outside Salt Lake City, Utah, but within the movie, the exact locale is not important. Mike’s own well-being is not terribly…