Alt Weekly: ‘Struck by Lightning’ and More

Welcome back to Alt Weekly, a column in which we shine a spotlight on the independent films brave enough to open opposite Hollywood’s behemoth blockbusters before rolling out in wider release.

This week sees redneck troublemakers and monsters in the shadows taking on the cops and crooks of “Gangster Squad.”

‘THE BAYTOWN OUTLAWS’

Filmmaker Cred: This is director Barry Battles’s feature debut.

Star Power: Billy Bob Thornton, Eva Longoria, Andre Braugher.

Festival/Awards Buzz: Garnering a low-key release in the doldrums of winter, we found ourselves moderately amused by this sweaty Southern throwback.

Release Details: Already available on demand, “Outlaws” will also open this Friday in NYC.

See This If … You need something to tide you over until the next re-run of “The Dukes of Hazzard.”

‘STORAGE 24'

Filmmaker Cred: Director Johannes Roberts’s resume includes the admirably direct titles “Roadkill,” “Hellbreeder” and “When Evil Calls.”

Star Power: “Doctor Who” fans may recognize lead actor/co-writer Noel Clarke.

Festival/Awards Buzz: Hardly a peep. UK reviews have not been kind.

Release Details: Also available on demand, this creature feature will see its sole theatrical bow in Columbus, OH.

See This If … You need something to tide you over until the next re-run of “The X-Files.”

‘STRUCK BY LIGHTNING’

Filmmaker Cred: Chris Colfer (“Glee”) wrote the screenplay and stars, while director Brian Dannelly previously demonstrated teen movie chops with 2004's “Saved!”

Star Power: Colfer, Rebel Wilson, Allison Janney, Christina Hendricks, Dermot Mulroney.

Festival/Awards Buzz: Word since its Tribeca premiere last spring hasn’t been too hot, with our own reviewer left similarly unimpressed.

Release Details: Currently available on demand as well, this will hit NY, LA, Denver, Phoenix, Columbus and Portland, OR, this weekend.

See This If … You need something to tide you over until the next re-run of (… wait for it …) “Glee.”

Categories: Alt Weekly, Columns

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