On-the-nose-ness, multiplied across the film's running time, undermines the film's sturdy dramatic arc and absorbing local texture.

What sets Trespass Against Us apart is the fact that its milieu, the Traveller community, is one rarely seen outside Gypsy wedding-style TV series.

This hit-and-miss crime drama never quite finds its feet, despite an intriguing West Country setting, some attempts at social commentary and two meaty roles for Ireland's finest thesps, Brendan Gleeson and Michael Fassbender.

On the lam, the film too often grinds its gears and dulls its edgy tone. The turn-over-a-new-leaf elements of parental challenges lack engagement come up empty.