- S: This dark, twisted story is told very reasonably barring a miraculous save and a strange older woman.
- C: Beautifully shot. The shots looking out of windows and positioning behind and over characters sets such a strong tone for the film. Only critique is that there is a fight scene where
it seems clear that the punches are faked. Although its nitpicky, you can tell its not quite choreographed perfectly.
- E: Incredible energetic. This film hums with life. The dark nature of the story, the excellent lighting and shot choices, and a great, subtle soundtrack all push the film forward in way that
makes it impossible to look away.
- N: Great story. The nightmare scenario is detailed so excellently that nearly all the characters' choices are well-timed and sensible. Only downside is the curious ending where a long-lost son is re-united with
his family.
- T: The film received all five possible bonus points. There are so many incredible shots/scenes that this film could break the scale: an incredible shot looking out the back of an RV, a great scene with a husband and his grief-stricken wife, one for haunting violence in an
unfinished bathroom, a scene where a detective interrogates a suspect in a corner, a brilliantly acted where a detective interrogates a suspect through a slightly opened door, an argument in a car on a rainy day that turns to sleet/snow, and a great
speedy driving sequence to an emergency room.
Denis Villeneuve has made so many great films, but this is near the top of the list for me. Me saying this isn't his best is not a slight against this film, but a reflection of
how excellent his filmography is. It's hard to make such a dark story bearable, but this movie is near perfect and I watch it annually.
Number of Watches: 3
