The movie follows Jack, a tough guy with chronic bad luck but human touches as he bides his time at a seedy motel, waiting for his boss after killing several men and making away with a mystery bag. But when his boss finally arrives on the scene there are sudden and extreme consequences for all.
The film has a nihilistic tone and its gallows humor may turn off more viewers than it seduces. Not since Killer Joe has a film exerted this mix of attraction and repulsion.
"The Bag Man" has more attitude than panache. Yes, we eventually get to see what's in the bag. But by the time its contents are revealed, you may no longer care.
By the time the intricate plot and not particularly satisfying payoff are revealed at the film's end, many viewers will feel like they were the ones left holding the bag.