But, as stated, there is something to the movie. Well, a few things that mean it is not a total wash. Its biggest saving grace is the acting. Carl Monego is captivating as the frustrated but well-meaning Kevin. He sells the ups and downs of his character believably, especially when it concerns Colleen. Monego and Healy are great together, coming across as if they are genuinely parent and child. When Kevin tells Colleen that Laura is pregnant, she asks if that is because he wants a kid that is better than she is. It is heartbreaking to Kevin, Laura, and the audience.
Matthay makes Laura’s reserved attitude towards the man she loves much more than just a roadblock. Her frustration with his steroid use is totally believable. Ed Bergtold as Kevin’s brother, Sam, is also excellent. An intense scene where Sam confides in Kevin as to the real reason he (Sam) left baseball gives Bergtold the chance to simmer in regret and heartache; he nails it.
“…for all the plot threads put forth, there is no payoff…”
Whenever Reckoning focuses on Kevin’s family dynamic, it is intriguing and garners investment from the audience. The news of a baby sibling follows Colleen being dejected by her mom, so of course, her reaction is to think that there is something wrong with her. It makes sense and is heartbreaking. Laura being uncertain if she can truly trust Kevin also adds a sense of weight to the proceedings. As Kevin mentors the hotshot newbie, there is some fun ribbing between the two of them.
Sadly, these good story beats and wonderful performances cannot entirely overcome the plethora of technical issues and the strained main plot point. Add in the movie’s absolute non-ending ending, and Reckoning proves to be more dull than enticing and is not worth the 90-minute journey, despite its worthwhile elements.
"…not worth the 90-minute journey, despite its worthwhile elements."
