The Wild West was a very dangerous time for everyone. Citizens of towns feared dreaded outlaws, and outlaws feared being caught by the sheriffs and marshals of the law. What would you do if you were in a gang trying to make a name for yourself? Would you risk it all on one big job, or would you stay behind? This is Death Alley.

The plot of Death Alley revolves around the Dalton gang in 1892. They attempt to steal money from the banks found within a town, but things do not go as planned. This movie is based on actual events, although I know nothing about the true history behind these events. I feel like it’s a highly complex one to try and take on with a low budget.

I can tell that the set was not amazing for a low-budget movie, but I was impressed otherwise with the setting. It gave it a western feel, yet it was missing the realism to it.

The cinematography is pretty cool. It’s super basic but works very perfectly for this film. I also liked during fight scenes how the camera shook. There was a specific moment that looked awesome where the camera tracks a couple characters in a bank shootout down to the floor.

The acting was nothing special. It isn’t bad, but no character really stood out to me and I didn’t end up connecting with any of the characters. This was very much a plot-driven film, except the story had the most errors to it. Death Alley had a really good start setting up its characters, followed by a great second act. Then during the climax it all fell apart. It’s like they gave up on writing 2/3rds of the way through.

The best part is its writer/director, Nicholas Barton. He did a really good job and is on the right track to making great films. He definitely needs work on his endings, though, but I’m confident he will get there. Be on the lookout for future projects by him.

Overall, Death Alley is OK. Aside from a writer/director to keep an eye on, there truly is nothing special about it. If you’re in the mood for a random low-budget western film, this might be entertaining.

6 out of 10