Movie Review: Reptile
Netflix's crime thriller scene welcomes a new player with "Reptile," a film featuring an ensemble cast that delivers knockout performances and a plot that unfurls like a tightly coiled serpent.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Scarborough, Detective Tom Nichols, portrayed with brooding intensity by Benicio Del Toro, takes center stage, joined by his partner Dan Cleary (Ato Essandoh). They delve into a murder investigation that spirals from a simple homicide into a complex web of deception.
Making his feature directorial debut, Grant Singer impresses with a keen eye for style and atmosphere. Singer skillfully captures the suburban setting, painting a haunting portrait of decay, where neglected swimming pools and vermin-infested McMansions symbolize the underlying rot beneath the town's idyllic facade. Scarborough comes alive under Singer's direction, providing a perfect backdrop for this dark and atmospheric noir thriller.
Yet, "Reptile" isn't just about visuals; it's also a showcase of mesmerizing performances. Benicio Del Toro, who co-wrote the script, injects Detective Tom Nichols with a multifaceted humanity. His on-screen chemistry with Alicia Silverstone, who plays his wife, Judy, adds depth to their characters. Silverstone's portrayal of Judy as a confidant actively assisting in the investigation is a refreshing departure from the typical supportive wife trope.
However, "Reptile" falters in the mystery department. The film tantalizingly introduces a range of intriguing suspects only to abruptly shift direction at one hour, leading to a somewhat disjointed investigation. While the overall writing remains solid, it occasionally stumbles with awkward dialogue exchanges and an unnecessary dream sequence that detracts from the viewing experience.
Despite these missteps, "Reptile" captivates with its dramatic procedural thrills, exceptional visuals, and committed performances. As Grant Singer's debut feature, it shows promise, hinting at future projects that could genuinely shine with some refinement.
In "Reptile," viewers follow Detective Tom Nichols on an unrelenting quest for the truth, where appearances are deceiving and illusions, both in the case and his personal life, are systematically dismantled. As the plot twists and turns like a coiled serpent, the unexpected ending promises to shock and satisfy audiences.
With its eclectic cast and a plot that keeps viewers guessing until the final moments, "Reptile" emerges as a hidden gem in Netflix's crime thriller lineup. If you crave a suspenseful journey into the underbelly of a seemingly perfect town, "Reptile" is a must-watch—an undiscovered hit waiting to be uncovered.
