While there are gunfights and everything concludes with a big shoot-out, the complexity of the situation is anything but standard-order fare for a Western.

A engaging story anchored by two powerful performances, with Glenn Close being is as ferocious as she has ever been.

With solid performances and a sensitive screenplay, "The Valley" offers a window overlooking a heartbreakingly common situation whose signs remain elusive.

An emotionally satisfying experience that brings to life a group of appealing characters and allows them to grow and expand in front of the lens.

Engages because the actors are sufficiently invested that they give breadth and depth to characters who are, for the most part, underwritten.

Compensates for narrative hiccups by offering an effective performance by Ben Kingsley and a story that goes to places many similar films would avoid.