The film serves as a surprisingly effective critique of the American judicial system's draconian mandatory minimum sentencing laws.

Some plot points require a heavy suspension of disbelief (such as a civilian owner of a trucking company so easily infiltrating a ruthless Mexican drug cartel). Additionally, Johnson's massive, powerhouse physique makes it a bit hard to believe he could be easily intimidated or beaten by local street punks.

Jon Bernthal steals several scenes as an ex-con reluctantly pulled back into the criminal world. Susan Sarandon and Barry Pepper bring incredible gravity and grit to their roles as federal authorities.

Dwayne Johnson delivers one of his career's most vulnerable and dramatic performances. He sheds his typical invincible "action hero" persona to play a terrified, desperate father in way over his head.