Buried in Barstow, the gripping crime drama movie starring Angie Harmon, doesn’t explicitly state the exact duration of the “burial” that its title alludes to. However, analysis of the narrative suggests that Hazel King’s past, the metaphorical “buried” aspect, spans approximately fifteen to twenty years before the events of the film. This period encompasses her departure from the criminal underworld and her subsequent attempt to build a legitimate life in Barstow, California.
Hazel King: A Past Unearthed
The film centers around Hazel King, a former hitwoman who has spent years trying to outrun her violent past. She’s established a seemingly ordinary life as a single mother and owner of a diner in Barstow. The arrival of a figure from her past, however, threatens to expose the secrets she’s desperately trying to keep buried, forcing her to confront the person she once was. The length of time Hazel has spent “buried” represents the duration of her efforts to escape this past and forge a new identity.
The absence of a precise timeline in the film narrative is intentional. It underscores the abstract nature of the “burial” itself. It’s not about literally being buried in the desert sands, but rather about the attempt to bury a former self, a past life, and the associated guilt and trauma. Hazel’s efforts to suppress her history are constantly challenged, reminding us that the past, regardless of how deeply buried, has a way of resurfacing. The dramatic tension of the movie is fueled by this continuous threat of exposure.
The Significance of Barstow
Barstow itself plays a crucial role in understanding the length of Hazel’s “burial.” The isolated, small-town setting provides a sense of anonymity and a distance from the criminal networks she was once involved with. It represents a deliberate attempt to create a new beginning, a fresh start far removed from the dangerous world she left behind. The very act of choosing Barstow suggests a conscious effort to bury her past in a place where it would be less likely to find her.
FAQs: Digging Deeper into Buried in Barstow
Here are some frequently asked questions to further explore the intricacies of Buried in Barstow:
What triggered Hazel King to leave her life as a hitwoman?
While the film doesn’t provide a single, definitive trigger, several factors likely contributed. The most prominent is the birth of her daughter, Joy. Hazel’s desire to provide Joy with a safe and stable upbringing was a powerful motivator for leaving her dangerous past behind. The moral compromises she had to make as a hitwoman likely also weighed heavily on her, contributing to a growing sense of disillusionment.
How does Hazel King support herself and Joy in Barstow?
Hazel owns and operates a diner in Barstow. The diner serves as a source of income and provides a sense of normalcy and community. It’s a stark contrast to her previous life, offering a legitimate and honest way to support herself and her daughter. The diner also acts as a central hub for the community, allowing Hazel to connect with others and build relationships, further solidifying her new identity.
Who is the figure from Hazel’s past that arrives in Barstow?
The figure who arrives in Barstow is Diego, Hazel’s former lover and partner-in-crime. Diego’s arrival disrupts Hazel’s carefully constructed life and forces her to confront the secrets she’s been trying to keep hidden. He represents the embodiment of her past and the constant threat of exposure.
What is Diego’s motive for seeking out Hazel in Barstow?
Diego’s motives are complex and multifaceted. He seeks Hazel’s help with a dangerous job, leveraging their past relationship and her expertise in violence. He also appears to harbor lingering feelings for her, making his presence a personal and emotional challenge for Hazel. Ultimately, his arrival throws her carefully constructed life into chaos.
Does Joy know about her mother’s past?
No, Joy is unaware of her mother’s past as a hitwoman. Hazel has gone to great lengths to protect Joy from the truth, creating a facade of normalcy and stability. This secrecy adds another layer of complexity to Hazel’s character and highlights her determination to provide Joy with a better life. The potential for Joy to discover the truth is a constant source of tension throughout the film.
What skills from her past does Hazel King still possess?
Despite her efforts to leave her past behind, Hazel retains the skills and instincts she honed as a hitwoman. She is still highly skilled in combat, weaponry, and strategic thinking. These abilities resurface when she is forced to protect herself and her daughter from the threats that emerge from her past. Her training and experience make her a formidable adversary, even after years of suppressing that side of herself.
How does “Buried in Barstow” explore themes of redemption and second chances?
The film explores the possibility of redemption and the challenges of earning a second chance. Hazel’s journey is a testament to the human capacity for change and the desire to escape a troubled past. However, the film also acknowledges the difficulties of breaking free from the consequences of one’s actions and the lasting impact of violence. Hazel’s struggle to reconcile her past with her present is at the heart of the film’s exploration of these themes.
What is the significance of the diner in the film?
The diner is more than just a place of business; it’s a symbol of Hazel’s attempt to build a normal life. It represents stability, community, and a connection to the present. It’s also a place where Hazel can provide for her daughter and create a sense of belonging. The diner’s vulnerability to the threats from Hazel’s past underscores the fragility of her new life.
How does the setting of Barstow contribute to the film’s atmosphere?
Barstow’s desolate and isolated landscape enhances the film’s sense of isolation and tension. The vast, open spaces create a feeling of vulnerability and expose Hazel’s efforts to hide her past. The harsh environment also reflects the challenges she faces in trying to build a new life in a place that offers both anonymity and a constant reminder of her past. The desert becomes a visual metaphor for her buried secrets.
Are there sequels to “Buried in Barstow?”
Yes, “Buried in Barstow” is the first film in a planned series. The success of the initial installment led to subsequent movies that further explore Hazel King’s character and her ongoing struggle to protect her daughter from the dangers of her past. These sequels delve deeper into the criminal underworld and the challenges of maintaining a normal life while carrying the burden of a violent history.
What are some of the key themes explored in the “Buried in Barstow” series?
The series explores themes of redemption, second chances, family, and the impact of violence. It also examines the challenges faced by women in traditionally male-dominated professions and the complexities of mother-daughter relationships. The series provides a compelling and nuanced portrayal of a woman trying to navigate a dangerous world while protecting those she loves.
What is the overall message of “Buried in Barstow?”
“Buried in Barstow” suggests that while the past may never truly be erased, it is possible to strive for redemption and build a better future. The film highlights the importance of family, the power of second chances, and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It’s a story about resilience and the unwavering commitment to protecting those you love, even when it means confronting your darkest demons.