The relationship between parents and children is often complex. It becomes more so when you’re separated or put into high-pressure situations. She Rides Shotgun, a new drama releasing in theaters this Friday, is an engaging drama. But at the heart, it’s the story of a father trying to do right by his daughter.

As the film opens, Polly (Ana Sophia Heger) is waiting for her mother after school. It’s late and she’s alone. Suddenly, her estranged father, Nathan (Taron Egerton), pulls up. She’s surprised to see him but goes anyway. Still, something doesn’t seem quite right.

It isn’t long before we learn this isn’t a purely social visit. Nathan, who is just out of prison, made some powerful enemies. That has left his family as collateral damage. That led to Polly’s mother and her new husband have been killed. Polly is a target, and Nathan will do anything to keep her safe.

That quickly puts father-and-daughter on the run. They find themselves caught between an ambitious detective (Rob Yang) and a gang that’s hunting them down. Can he keep his daughter safe and find a way out of the jam?

This is an interesting set up. The way the story is teased out early, you’re not quite sure what role Nathan played in setting these events in motion. By the time we get to heart of the story, you’re bought into Nathan and Polly. That’s a credit to Egerton, who delivers a fierce performance, and Heger, who is great as young Polly.

The film moves at a good pace and has some decent action sequences, including a big conclusion in the Third Act. The supporting cast is solid, too. Yang does a nice job as the dogged detective, while Odessa A’zion, David Lyons and John Carroll Lynch do a good job in supporting roles.

This is a simple drama and a simple enough story that is effective. It wasn’t incredible but it was entertaining and an engaging watch. For those looking for a good drama, this makes for a nice option in theaters this weekend.

She Rides Shotgun opens in theaters on Friday, August 1.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.