'Straw Dogs' successfully hits societal issues where it hurts

LOS ANGELES, CA -- Not too often does a new movie release cause audiences to stand up and cheer after experiencing a contrasting, emotional period of highs and lows.

But on Saturday, at a movie theatre in Marina del Rey, the penetrating renovation of director Sam Peckinpah's Oscar-nominated 1971 "Straw Dogs" did just that -- exceedingly so.

Moviegoers shouted at the screen. Many applauded.

The 2011 remake, helmed by film critic-turned-director Rod Lurie, actualizes conflict in a realistic opening sequence that reminds viewers why award-winning film, television and stage actor James Woods chooses to star in such critically-acclaimed films.

The moment Woods' character speaks and performs in this Mississippi-rooted film, viewers are clutched by the jaws of authenticity that won't let go for the movie's durative running time of 110 minutes.

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