The Fellrockers marks noted actor Adam Driver's first attempt at not only screenwriting, but also directing a feature film. Described by Driver in multiple press interviews as "Marxist Oppenheimer," the slow-burn drama follows two members of the aristocratic Fellrocker family as they drift apart as a result of disagreements over the nature of capitalism.
While at times resembling a poignant ode to the working class, Driver's self-indulgence often causes the film to lose focus of its main message, resulting in an end product that is about as coherent as a Pollock painting. This is most apparent in the overbearing romantic subplot between David Fellrocker (played by Driver) and his love interest, with over a third of the runtime dedicated to the couple's sexual inclinations -- one particularly egregious love scene involves the two engaged in "the taxpayer," a moment which must have seemed genius to Driver when writing the script but is nothing but awkward for the viewing audience.
Another example of the film's disjointed nature comes when, following the death of a major character, David looks into the camera and says "Now that's what I call blood money!" a line that feels plucked straight out of a cheesy 80s action film and has no place in a film as serious as Driver wants us to believe his debut is.
In summary, while The Fellrockers shows capable directing chops from the actor, Adam Driver would do good to attend a few more writing workshops, or at least be more open to criticism when it comes to his screenwriting endeavors.
Final rating: 4/10