It would have been intriguing to film "Josie" in black-and-white, as the film could have been a throwback to film noir. But, as a color film, there was a realistic aura to the tawdry rooms at the Pink Motel, dilapidated vehicles, and half-emptied whiskey bottles. Because the screenplay lacked pizazz, the film atmosphere might have given "Josie" a much needed boost.

The star of the show is Dylan McDermott as a poor schlub named Hank. He formerly worked in a prison as a guard assisting with executions of death row inmates in Huntsville, Texas. But because he has a conscience, he is haunted by one the victims who was proven innocent following his execution. Now, "Hanky Panky" (as one of his fellow residents calls him) is working as a parking guard at a local high school, where the students apparently taunt him.

When young Josie (Sophie Turner) arrives at the low-rent Pink Motel, Hank's life changes when she takes an interest in him. Is she sincere? Or, is she a femme fatale out of film noir? Turner does a good job in keeping Hank (and the audience) guessing about her character. She never looks like a high school student. But that may have been an intentional choice on the part of the filmmakers.

The film turns on a single scene where there is a startling revelation. The moment is unexpected and cleverly designed by the director. While "Josie' is not an innovative film, it was nonetheless watchable and well-performed by the two leads.