### **Plot Summary**
**Setting and Context:**
“The Devil All the Time” is a psychological thriller and drama directed by Antonio Campos, based on the 2011 novel by Donald Ray Pollock. The film is set in rural Ohio and West Virginia in the aftermath of World War II, spanning from the late 1940s to the early 1960s. It is a dark and atmospheric narrative that weaves together multiple storylines involving crime, religion, and human frailty.
**Storyline:**
The film centers on Arvin Russell (played by Tom Holland), a young man grappling with the haunting effects of his troubled childhood and the harsh realities of the world around him. After returning from World War II, Arvin finds himself caught in a web of violence and corruption that entangles his family and the people in his community.
Arvin’s story begins with the traumatic experiences of his childhood, including the death of his parents and the struggles of being raised by his grandparents. As he grows up, he becomes entangled in the dark and violent events unfolding in his hometown, driven by a deep sense of justice and a desire to protect those he loves.
**Key Characters:**
1. **Arvin Russell (Tom Holland):** The central character whose life is marred by violence and tragedy. Tom Holland delivers a powerful performance, portraying Arvin’s internal conflict and moral struggles as he confronts the darkness around him.
2. **Willard Russell (Bill Skarsgård):** Arvin’s father, whose return from the war leaves him deeply scarred and leads to a series of tragic events.
3. **Charlotte Russell (Haley Bennett):** Arvin’s mother, whose relationship with Willard and her own troubled past contribute to the film’s narrative.
4. **Reverend Preston Teagardin (Robert Pattinson):** A manipulative and corrupt preacher who plays a crucial role in the film’s dark and intricate plot.
5. **The Hillbilly Family:** A pair of murderous and twisted individuals who contribute to the overall atmosphere of menace and danger.
**Themes:**
The film delves into themes of faith, violence, and redemption. It explores the impact of trauma and the cyclical nature of violence within families and communities. The pervasive sense of dread and the examination of human flaws are central to the film’s narrative, offering a grim but thought-provoking portrayal of its characters.
**Tom Holland’s Performance:**
Tom Holland’s role as Arvin Russell is a significant departure from his more familiar, light-hearted roles, such as Spider-Man. In “The Devil All the Time,” he takes on a darker, more intense character, showcasing his ability to handle complex and emotionally demanding material. Holland’s portrayal of Arvin is marked by a deep sense of vulnerability and strength, reflecting the character’s internal and external battles.
**Reception:**
The film received mixed to positive reviews from critics. Holland’s performance, in particular, was praised for its depth and intensity, marking a notable step forward in his acting career. Critics appreciated the film’s dark, atmospheric tone and its exploration of heavy themes, although some found the narrative to be complex and challenging to follow.
**Impact:**
“The Devil All the Time” stands out as a significant project in Tom Holland’s filmography, demonstrating his versatility as an actor. It offered him the chance to break away from his more familiar roles and take on a character with considerable depth and complexity.
Overall, “The Devil All the Time” is a gripping and intense film that highlights Tom Holland’s range and capability as an actor, offering a memorable and powerful performance that adds to the film’s impact and significance in his career.