Prepare yourself for Bob Odenkirk like you’ve never seen him before! In the gripping new film ‘Normal,’ Odenkirk proves he’s not just a comedic actor but a bona fide action star, following his compelling performances in ‘Nobody’ and its sequel.

Directed by the versatile Ben Wheatley and penned by John Wick creator Derek Kolstad, this film takes an audacious dive into a crime saga that doesn’t hold back on the mayhem. With a blend of bloody action and dry humor, ‘Normal’ captures the raw essence of small-town life as it spirals into chaos.

Set in the quaint town of Normal, Minnesota—home to just 1,890 residents before the blood starts flowing—Odenkirk stars as Sheriff Ulysses, who initially relishes the peacefulness of his temporary assignment. Haunted by his past, he aims to leave the town unscathed, but his plans derail as he uncovers the unsettling truths lurking beneath Normal's picturesque surface.

As Ulysses investigates a series of peculiar events, including the suspicious death of his predecessor and the curious behavior of the quirky Mayor Kibner (played by the iconic Henry Winkler), he quickly realizes that all is not as it seems. The town, with its oddly prevalent firearms and a mysterious moose, harbors dark secrets.

The situation escalates dramatically after Ulysses intervenes in a botched bank heist, only to find himself targeted by not only the robbers but also his own deputies. With no allies to count on, he makes an unexpected partnership with the inept robbers and confronts an extravagant twist: the bank vault is packed with gold bars hidden by the Japanese Yakuza, who have been using Normal to launder their profits.

From there, the film transforms from a comedic nod to the Coen Brothers’ ‘Fargo’ into a whirlwind of Tarantino-esque violence that is both shocking and entertaining. Wheatley’s expertise shines as he orchestrates a chaotic yet precise symphony of destruction, especially when the Yakuza enter the fray.

Odenkirk navigates both the film's dark comedic tones and brutal action scenes with a cool detachment, supported by a unique ensemble cast, including Lena Headey as the enigmatic barkeep. The chilly Winnipeg backdrop accentuates the film's violent spectacle, brought to life with stunning cinematography by Armando Salas.

As ‘Normal’ made its world premiere in TIFF’s Midnight Madness section to enthusiastic applause, it's poised to captivate audiences everywhere. With its blend of razor-sharp humor and explosive action, this film is sure to leave its mark!