Buried in Barstow

A Hilariously Dark Dive into “Buried in Barstow”

Welcome to Barstow, the town where the tumbleweeds are the most stable residents, and the only thing more predictable than the weather is the drama that unfolds in the life of Hazel King. Played by the indomitable Jill Wagner, Hazel is a single mother with a backstory that could fill a novel—and a therapist’s office. She’s determined to shield her daughter from the gritty life she once led, which is like trying to keep a cat away from a laser pointer. Spoiler alert: good luck with that!

As we dive into this cinematic gem, we find Hazel operating a quaint little diner, serving up comfort food and a side of existential dread. Clearly, she’s trying to keep her past buried deeper than a bad haircut. But, just as you think she’s got it all figured out, enter the local ne’er-do-wells. Because what’s a small town without a few unsavory characters lurking around, right?

Hazel’s protective instincts kick in when her daughter, the bright-eyed and bushy-tailed Emmy, starts showing interest in the less-than-savory side of Barstow. You know, the part where people have names like “Tattoo Tony” and “Shady Sam.” Naturally, Hazel’s mama bear mode activates, and she does everything short of setting up a moat around their home to keep out the riff-raff. But, spoiler alert number two: the moat is metaphorical, and the bad guys don’t respect property lines!

As Hazel navigates this minefield of bad decisions and even worse company, she finds herself drawn back into the world she tried to escape. It’s like trying to quit carbs while working in a bakery—impossible! The tension ramps up when she’s forced to confront her past, which comes back like an ex that just won’t take the hint. We witness some laugh-out-loud moments as Hazel juggles her diner duties, her daughter’s teenage shenanigans, and the occasional fistfight with a villain who’s about as charming as a rattlesnake in a sock drawer.

Now, let’s talk about the film’s climax, where Hazel finally decides enough is enough. She dons her metaphorical superhero cape (complete with grease stains) and takes matters into her own hands. Think of it as a one-woman mission to clean up Barstow, armed with nothing but a frying pan and a fierce determination to protect her daughter. Spoiler alert three: the frying pan is a surprisingly effective weapon when wielded by a determined single mom!

In a final showdown that feels like a blend of a soap opera and an action flick, Hazel confronts her past, her enemies, and her own fears. It’s a wild ride filled with unexpected twists, some cringe-worthy moments, and a healthy dose of humor. By the end, you’ll find yourself questioning whether Barstow should be on your travel itinerary or if it’s better left as a cautionary tale.

So, if you’re in the mood for a film that mixes a mother’s love with a side of chaos and a sprinkle of dark comedy, grab a seat and settle in for “Buried in Barstow.” Just remember to keep your expectations low and your sense of humor high. Because in this town, the only thing buried deeper than secrets is Hazel’s determination.