A revenge-fantasy Western that wants to luxuriate in its B-movie roots but suffers from dull direction and an even duller central performance.

It bludgeons with intent, even dabbling in some "Deadwood"-level verbal shock-and-awe; without wit or intelligence, it's merely baroque affectation playacting at depth.

As violent act begets silly exchange begets another violent act, "Sweetwater" squanders its noteworthy resources ...

Sweetwater does have inspired moments of wild wit, heady heartland humor, and sobering social satire touching on religious fanaticism in particular. Though far too intermingled with SNL style flaky slapstick.