State Rules

In the volatile political climate of a fictional midwestern state, a young, ambitious prosecutor finds herself entangled in a web of corruption that reaches the highest levels of government. As she digs deeper into a series of suspicious deaths, she uncovers a conspiracy that threatens not only her career but her life. The film explores the ethical compromises made in the pursuit of justice and power.

State Rules received a mixed to positive reception from critics, who praised its ambitious storytelling and strong performances, particularly from Anya Taylor-Joy and Kaitlyn Dever. However, some reviewers found the plot convoluted and the pacing uneven. Audiences were generally divided, with some appreciating the gritty realism and suspense, while others felt it was too bleak and lacked emotional depth.

• Praised for its intense atmosphere and compelling performances.
• Criticized for its complex narrative that occasionally becomes difficult to follow.
• Applauded for its timely exploration of political corruption and moral ambiguity.

Google audience: Audiences largely appreciated the film's suspenseful plot and the strong acting from the lead cast. Many found it to be a thought-provoking thriller that tackled relevant social issues, though a segment of viewers felt the story was overly complicated and at times unsatisfyingly resolved.

Nominated for Best Actress at the Independent Spirit Awards for Anya Taylor-Joy. Received several nominations at regional film festivals for its screenplay and directing.

The fictional state where the film is set, 'Midlandia,' was inspired by a blend of political and social issues prevalent in several actual US states during the mid-2010s, aiming for a sense of plausible, albeit heightened, reality.