It’s almost as exciting to be able to watch brand spanking new movies from the convenience of your own couch as it is terrifying to think that some people out there might think that in February of 2021 it’s a good idea to venture out for a 128 minute movie to a cinema. Either way, though, this one really isn’t worth the time or the money or the potential risk. This movie is essentially a dramatically lackluster version of Se7en that decided to rely on three Oscar caliber actors instead of the usual tricks such as good writing, tight pacing, etc. It also quite inexplicably decided that police unity and fraternity themes are more interesting and compelling that solving a serial killer mystery. It kids you for a while and strings you along long enough, but in the end it’s all about the police brethren solidarity and it’s all for one and one for all dynamics. Needless to say, the movie fails on all accounts. It doesn’t hold a candle to Se7en, it doesn’t even come near a match. Though its stars go for their best dramatic acting, they really do. Denzel Washington, now well into his 60s and looking all the plumper for it, is still as compelling to watch as he’s ever been, which is the main reason he’s one of the few male actors of that age who maintains his cinematic appeal and work quality. Denzel is as much of a star now as he was three decades ago, when this movie is set. Rami Malek is considerably less substantial (and this isn’t just a weight thing) though his peculiar features and simmering intensity make him a good fit for a cop whose tight rein on his temper slips more and more as the story progresses. Together they have perfectly decent scenes, but nothing special occurs until Jared Leto shambles (character walk) into the frame. Leto is an actor who seems to enjoy disappearing into his roles, whether blowing up for Chapman, slimming down and finding him feminine side for Dallas Buyers Club or going mad with power (and make up) as a Joker. In this movie he just went for maximize the creep factor and creepy he becomes. Alarmingly so, with a labored walk, stringy mane and paunch and set of contacts among other things, Leto practically screams guilty and so the detectives latch on to him like a baby to the teat. And then things start getting (somewhat) interesting. Mind you, as mentioned before this is much less of a procedural and much more of a drama. Much space is dedicated to Denzel’s reception back at his old precinct which he left under a mysterious clout, so mysterious we don’t find out about it until the very end, it is, in fact, the final twist. It’s a surprisingly warm reception, considering, except by (another middle aged actor who never skipped a meal) Terry Kinney. The ladies still love Denzel, moral compromises be f*cked. Because, obviously, it’s Denzel. And because Denzel’s character has something of a moral center, there’s at the very end one final gesture, which makes it for an initially ambiguous, but then logical final statement. All in all, very underwhelming. Disappointing even. It’s talent heavy and plot thin and just makes you appreciate Se7en all the more. Or want your time back.
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