Small Crimes, a gritty crime novel written by Dave Zeltserman, was first published in 2008. The book’s story of redemption and revenge captivated readers, leading to the film adaptation directed by E.L. Katz in 2017.
In this article, we will unravel the intricacies of Small Crimes by providing a comprehensive book summary and an exploration of E.L. Katz’s film adaptation. Join us as we delve into the world of Small Crimes, its characters, and the artistic minds behind this gripping story.
Dave Zeltserman: Author Bio and Works
Dave Zeltserman is an American author known for his crime, mystery, and horror novels. Born in 1959, Zeltserman began his writing career in the 1990s with short stories published in various magazines.
His first novel, Fast Lane, was published in 2004, and since then, he has written several acclaimed novels, including Small Crimes, Pariah, and Killer.
Zeltserman’s works have won numerous awards, including the Shamus Award for Julius Katz and Archie and the Ellery Queen Readers Award for Archie’s Been Framed.
His books have also been translated into multiple languages, showcasing his worldwide appeal and talent for crafting gripping stories.
E.L. Katz: Director Bio and Other Media
E.L. Katz is a talented director and writer known for his work in the horror and thriller genres. Born in 1980, Katz began his career as a writer and producer for several television shows before making his directorial debut with the 2013 film Cheap Thrills.
Katz’s style is characterized by dark humor, suspense, and a focus on character development, making him a perfect fit for the adaptation of Small Crimes.
In addition to Small Crimes, E.L. Katz has also directed episodes of popular television shows, such as Channel Zero, The Exorcist, and Scream: The TV Series. His work in both film and television continues to captivate audiences and showcases his talent for bringing stories to life on screen.
Small Crimes: A Comprehensive Book Summary
Small Crimes follows the story of disgraced former cop Joe Denton, who is released from prison after serving seven years for attempted murder. He returns to his hometown, hoping to rebuild his life while avoiding the many enemies he made during his time on the force.
However, Joe soon finds himself entangled in a web of crime, corruption, and violence, as he tries to navigate his way through his past mistakes and make amends for his small crimes.
As Joe struggles to put his life back together, he finds himself caught between a vengeful district attorney, a sadistic mob boss, and his own dark past. As the body count rises, Joe must confront his demons and fight for his own survival in a town that seems determined to keep him from ever leaving.
Small Crimes: A Comprehensive Movie Summary
The film adaptation of Small Crimes, directed by E.L. Katz, stays true to the dark and suspenseful tone of the novel. The film follows Joe Denton (played by Nikolaj Coster-Waldau), as he returns to his hometown after serving time in prison.
Like the novel, the movie explores Joe’s attempts to reconcile with his family and overcome the many obstacles that stand in his way.
With a talented supporting cast that includes Gary Cole, Jacki Weaver, and Robert Forster, the film adaptation of Small Crimes brings the novel’s characters to life on screen. The movie is a thrilling ride filled with twists and turns, showcasing the best of both Zeltserman’s writing and Katz’s directorial skills.
Exploring the Parent Guide for Small Crimes
The Small Crimes movie is rated TV-MA, meaning it is intended for mature audiences and may not be suitable for children under 17. The film contains strong language, violence, and some sexual content.
Parents should be aware of these elements and use their discretion when deciding whether or not to allow their children to watch the film.
It is always important to consider the themes and content of a movie before allowing a child to watch it. In the case of Small Crimes, parents should weigh the potential educational and entertainment value of the film against its mature themes and content.
When and Where: The Setting and Film Locations
Small Crimes takes place in an unnamed small town in the United States. The novel does not specify a particular time period, but it can be assumed to be set in the early 21st century, given the publication date and the presence of modern technology.
The film adaptation was primarily shot in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The city’s architecture and landscape provide a fitting backdrop for the story’s dark and suspenseful tone. The film’s locations help to create an immersive and atmospheric setting that draws the viewer into the world of Small Crimes.
Who’s Who: Characters and Cast
In both the book and the film adaptation, Small Crimes features a diverse and compelling cast of characters. Below is a list of the main characters and their respective actors in the film adaptation:
- Joe Denton: Nikolaj Coster-Waldau
- Phil Coakley: Gary Cole
- Irma Denton: Jacki Weaver
- Lieutenant Pleasant: Robert Forster
- Scotty: Larry Fessenden
- Junior Vassey: Pat Healy
- Manny Vasquez: Michael Kinney
These characters, along with other supporting roles, help to create a rich and complex world that keeps the audience engaged throughout the story.
Memorable Quotes from Small Crimes
Small Crimes is full of memorable quotes that showcase the wit and wisdom of its characters. Here are a few standout lines from both the book and the film adaptation:
- “The past is like a shadow, always there, always following you.†– Joe Denton
- “Sometimes small crimes can lead to big problems.†– Phil Coakley
- “We all have our secrets, Joe. The question is, can you live with yours?†– Irma Denton
These quotes not only provide insight into the characters but also highlight the central themes of the story, such as redemption, forgiveness, and the consequences of our actions.
The Soundtrack: Will Blair and Brooke Blair’s Contribution
The soundtrack for Small Crimes was composed by brothers Will Blair and Brooke Blair. Their music adds to the film’s dark and suspenseful atmosphere, complementing Katz’s visual storytelling.
The soundtrack features a mix of haunting melodies and tense, pulsating rhythms that underscore the escalating tension and drama of the film.
Will and Brooke Blair have also composed music for several other films and television shows, including Green Room, Blue Ruin, and The Informer.
Their work in Small Crimes showcases their talent for creating evocative and emotionally resonant scores that enhance the storytelling experience.
Curiosities and Trivia about Small Crimes
- Small Crimes was E.L. Katz’s second feature film as a director, following his debut with Cheap Thrills (2013).
- The film’s lead actor, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, is best known for his role as Jaime Lannister on the HBO series Game of Thrones.
- Dave Zeltserman’s novel Small Crimes was initially published in 2008, nearly a decade before the release of the film adaptation.
- The film premiered at the South by Southwest Film Festival in March 2017 before being released on Netflix in April of the same year.
Dress Like Your Favorite Characters: Tips for Cosplay
If you’re a fan of Small Crimes and want to dress like your favorite characters, consider these tips for creating a convincing cosplay:
- Joe Denton: For Joe’s signature look, wear a simple button-up shirt, jeans, and a pair of sturdy boots. To complete the ensemble, add a leather jacket and a fake scar or bruise on your face to represent Joe’s rough past.
- Phil Coakley: To dress like the district attorney, wear a dark suit, a crisp white shirt, and a conservative tie. A pair of black dress shoes and a professional-looking hairstyle will complete the look.
- Irma Denton: To emulate Joe’s mother, choose a modest floral dress, a cardigan, and sensible shoes. Accessorize with simple jewelry and a practical hairstyle.
By dressing up as your favorite character from Small Crimes, you can show your appreciation for the story and share your fandom with others.
The Ending Explained: Small Crimes’ Conclusion
Small Crimes’ conclusion is filled with tension, suspense, and unexpected twists. Without revealing any spoilers, the story builds to a climax in which Joe Denton faces the consequences of his past actions and attempts to find redemption.
The ending leaves the audience with a sense of closure, but also raises questions about the nature of forgiveness and the possibility of redemption.
Whether you’ve read the book, watched the film, or both, the conclusion of Small Crimes is sure to leave you thinking about the story and its themes long after you’ve finished.
Speculations: Remake, Sequel, and Spin-offs
As of now, there have been no official announcements regarding a remake, sequel, or spin-off for Small Crimes. However, the story’s captivating characters and compelling plot make it ripe for further exploration in various forms of media.
A sequel could potentially follow Joe Denton as he continues to navigate the consequences of his past and struggle for redemption. A spin-off could explore the lives and stories of other characters in the Small Crimes universe, such as Phil Coakley or Lieutenant Pleasant.
Regardless of the direction taken, fans of Small Crimes would undoubtedly welcome the opportunity to revisit this dark and suspenseful world.
Similar Media to Small Crimes: Books, Films, and TV Shows
If you enjoyed Small Crimes, you might also like the following books, films, and TV shows that share similar themes, tones, or storytelling styles:
- Books: “The Drop” by Dennis Lehane, “The Killer Inside Me” by Jim Thompson, and “The Friends of Eddie Coyle” by George V. Higgins
- Films: “Fargo” (1996), “A Simple Plan” (1998), and “Blue Ruin” (2013)
- TV Shows: “Breaking Bad”, “Fargo” (TV series), and “Ozark”
By exploring these similar media, you can continue to enjoy captivating stories of crime, redemption, and suspense.
Book Club Questions for Small Crimes
If you’re discussing Small Crimes in a book club, consider these questions to spark conversation and analysis:
- How does Joe Denton’s past affect his relationships with the other characters in the story?
- What role does the theme of redemption play in the story, and how is it explored through the characters and their actions?
- How does the setting of a small town contribute to the story’s tone and atmosphere?
- In what ways does the film adaptation stay true to the novel, and where does it diverge? How do these changes affect the overall story?
Video Games Inspired by Small Crimes
While there are no video games directly based on Small Crimes, fans of the story may enjoy games with similar themes or settings.
Some examples include L.A. Noire, a detective-themed game set in 1940s Los Angeles, and the Grand Theft Auto series, which explores the seedy underbelly of crime and corruption in various fictional cities.
By playing these games, fans of Small Crimes can further immerse themselves in the world of crime, mystery, and redemption.
Travel Guide: Visiting Small Crimes Film Locations
For fans who want to experience the world of Small Crimes firsthand, consider visiting Montreal, Quebec, Canada, where the film was shot.
Montreal is a vibrant city with a rich history and picturesque architecture, making it the perfect location for a vacation or a Small Crimes-themed tour.
While in Montreal, you can visit the various film locations used in the film, such as the Old Port of Montreal, the Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood, and other recognizable spots.
By visiting these locations, you can immerse yourself in the world of Small Crimes and create lasting memories of your favorite story.
Conclusion: Unraveling the Intricacies of Small Crimes
In this comprehensive exploration of Small Crimes, we have delved into the intriguing world of Dave Zeltserman’s novel and E.L. Katz’s film adaptation.
From a detailed book and movie summary to an examination of the characters, settings, and themes, we have unraveled the intricacies of this captivating story.
Whether you’re a fan of the book, the film, or both, we hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of Small Crimes and a greater appreciation for the talented artists who brought this story to life.
