Chigurh makes this bleak, nihilistic and complete no-hoper of a film more alarmingly than most horror movies. Here, the fear is palpable, and disconcertingly universal.
It is a character steeped in enigma -- and a peculiarly distinctive, almost equine haircut -- as we learn when we meet decidedly glib bounty hunter Carson Wells (Woody Harrelson). Wells introduces us to the character -- pronouncing Chigurh almost like Sugar -- by succinctly telling us he doesn't have a sense of humour. An inaccurate description, this, as we see Chigurh, serial killer extraordinaire, use his unique weapon usually only after a very Coen-quip and parry.
As victim blood spreads close to his feet, he lifts his boots up onto the bed, not breaking poise for a moment. His ways are methodical, meticulously so, and he never seems to make a false move -- or to emote, despite the odd burst of ruthless sarcasm. A woman about to meet her maker tells him he doesn't have to do this, and he smirks lopsidedly before informing her of the truth. "Everybody says that."
Blood has never seemed quite this cold.
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