the only thing 'small town' is the dialogue

Rating: 8/10 (9 August 2002)

and that's enough to convince viewers that they are watching a bunch of clumsy and naive quasi-canadians bumble around a hopeless kidnapping scheme. the uncertainty felt throughout about who will get away with what is well justified as it is very difficult to gauge the integrity of the characters presented - this is especially true with the cop portrayed by Frances McDormand. she's hokey just like everyone else, but she seems to be the only character possessing any acumen.
in fact there is constant intelligence present in this film; in the background, hiding behind the ruralness. the Coen brothers weave scenes together at an ideal pace. there are many twists and turns, often unanticipated, always intriguing.
highly recommended : 8.5/10