Thriller Reviews
Browse our collection of thriller reviews and ratings
Perfume: The Story of a Murderer
Based on Patrick Süskind's 1985 bestselling novel, "Perfume: The Story of a Murderer" is a tantalizing nose-dive into the world of scent and the human obsession for capturing the ephemeral. Set in the 18th-century France, it tells the story of Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, a man born with a superhuman sense of smell but without a scent of his own. The film is incredibly atmospheric, heightened by its rich cinematography and lavish production design. Yet, it's Ben Whishaw's menacing and magnetic performance as Grenouille that leaves an unforgettable trail. His journey to create the ultimate perfume is both disturbing and engrossing. The depth of his olfactory obsession could leave you, at least momentarily, a more scent-aware individual. Perhaps, where "Perfume" loses its scent is its insistence on visualizing something as intangible as smell. Some scenes might feel uncomfortable or even gratuitous. Still, if you're the kind of movie enthusiast who’s fascinated by offbeat, dark narratives and mesmerizing performances, give "Perfume" a whiff. It ought to be as unique an experience as its protagonist.
Deutschland 83
Deutschland 83 is a gripping Cold War thriller set in 1980s Germany. It follows young East German border-guard Martin Rauch (Jonas Nay) who is unwillingly thrust into the world of espionage when he's sent undercover to West Germany. The hook is its unique perspective - a spy story from the East German angle - and its infusion with 80s pop culture, fashion, and soundtrack. Jonas Nay delivers a fantastic performance as Martin, whose ideological beliefs are consistently tested as he navigates the murky waters of intelligence and counter-intelligence. The series also does a superb job of recreating the tense atmosphere of the Cold War period, capturing the grim realities of the East-West divide in a gritty, no-holds-barred manner. On the downside, some episodes do feel a tad slow-paced, and the storyline occasionally ventures into cliched territory. Nevertheless, if you have a penchant for history, appreciate a good character-centric narrative, or you're just a sucker for 80s pop culture and retro vibes, Deutschland 83 is a great watch.
Rear Window
Alfred Hitchcock's "Rear Window" is a masterwork of suspense and cinemagraphic genius. This film thrusts the audience into the life of L.B. "Jeff" Jefferies, a wheelchair-bound photographer who becomes convinced that one of his neighbors has committed a murder. The audience anxiously watches events unfold through Jefferies' camera lens, a voyeuristic lens that echoes the very act of watching a movie. What sets "Rear Window" apart-even in Hitchcock's remarkable oeuvres is the director's precise attention to detail. From the meticulously constructed set to the flawless performances, many regard this film as one of Hitchcock's most tightly woven narratives. It plays beautifully on the fear of the unknown and the macabre curiosities that stir within us all. "Rear Window" deserves a watch regardless of your usual movie preferences because of its storytelling, directorial excellence, and understanding of human curiosity and fear. It's a movie that stands the test of time and proves why Hitchcock is seen as the "Master of Suspense".
Sneakers
"Sneakers" is an intellectual and sophisticated thriller released in 1992. Directed by Phil Alden Robinson, this film features an ensemble cast of Robert Redford, Sidney Poitier, Dan Aykroyd, River Phoenix, and Ben Kingsley. The film is a marriage of crime, comedy and techno-thriller, with a credible and ingenious narrative focusing on privacy, government surveillance and cryptography, long before these became mainstream conversations. In the movie, a team of security specialists, led by Redford's character, are blackmailed into stealing a secret black box. What follows is a complex plot of twists and turns, involving intelligence agencies and global powers. The film balances its serious themes with light-hearted humor and camaraderie, delivering a unique combination of intrigue and entertainment. A recommendation to watch "Sneakers" comes not only from its interesting, ahead-of-its-time narrative, but also from its remarkable casting. The performances are solid and engaging, making audiences invest in the journey of these unconventional heroes. The film is a testimony that wholesome entertainment can also be intelligent and thought-provoking.
Run Lola Run
"Run Lola Run" is an adrenaline-charged German thriller, directed by Tom Tykwer, that delves into the nature of fate, reality, and time. From the moment it starts, the movie takes you on a thrilling ride - each frame is filled with non-stop action and the high-energy soundtrack ramps the tension further. Lola, our protagonist, portrayed by Franka Potente, has 20 minutes to secure 100,000 marks in order to save her boyfriend's life. The story's unique trait - it's told three times, with slight alterations that drastically change the outcome. This structure makes for a vibrant and innovative cinematic experience, demanding engagement from its audience. High on energy and oozing originality, "Run Lola Run" captivates viewers through its clever storytelling method, sharpened further by a thrilling pace and arresting performances. It is a must-watch, particularly for those who enjoy non-linear narratives and themes of decision making and alternatives.
The Night of the Hunter
This 1955 thriller is a masterclass in direction by Charles Laughton, blending elements of horror, film noir, and melodrama into a unique Gothic Americana landscape. The story follows a self-proclaimed preacher (Robert Mitchum), who uses his charm and biblical rhetoric to manipulate those around him - all while hunting for a hidden fortune that only two young children know about. The performances are unforgettable, especially Mitchum's chilling demonic figure and Lillian Gish's embodiment of tough, maternal love. While the plot deals with serious themes, it never loses its sense of fun or turns into self-parody. The film's expressive use of light, shadow and sound create hauntingly beautiful sequences that have inspired countless other filmmakers, including David Lynch. Why should you watch it? This film is a gem of cinema history, one of the earliest examples of a psychological thriller, masterfully executed. If you're intrigued by deeply human character studies or want to see one of the most influential films in this genre, The Night of the Hunter should be on your must-watch list.