Roger Brown (Aksel Hennie) appears to have it all: a beautiful wife (Diana, Julie R. Ølgaard), a wonderful home and a great job. However this is all a facade, as he has a strong inferiority complex and to keep his wife satisfied he has become a high profile thief. When his latest victim (Nikolaj Coster-Waldau) starts hunting him down for reasons unknown, Roger must figure out who he can trust and how far he’ll go to survive.
While this may sound like a familiar story, what sets this film apart is the execution. On a relatively small budget, director Morten Tyldum is able to create a movie as stylish looking as any American thriller; while also shocking us, unlike most American films nowadays. He creates an incredibly tense atmosphere, at times it’s hard to figure out what will happen next. This is best emphasised in scenes where Roger is hiding or playing dead. The tension is so high that you may find your heart racing. The film is also capable of being graphic without being over-the-top with its violence, feeling realistic as opposed to attempting to attract Saw’s audience.
The main cast are all terrific, it’s obvious in each scene that they are hiding something, creating real mystery with just a few small scenes. When the main character becomes unsure about who to trust, you too will seriously question whether any of the cast are on his side. Aksel Hennie plays Roger incredibly well as a privileged man pushed to his limit. His insecurity complex is so extreme that he doesn’t trust anyone as it is and throughout the film many of his suspicions are confirmed. He is also allowed to fall apart in some scenes, betraying his steely facade. Nikolaj R. Ølgaard’s character is almost the opposite, giving off a warm facade while having a very cold exterior, appearing to only truly love his dog. The character of Diana is created to be a mystery who’s side is she on and will she turn on her own husband? Julie R. Ølgaard, in her first film role, plays the part expertly, creating an enigma of a character.
However, the film isn’t totally flawless. Some characters aren’t perfect, like Roger’s mistress who feels a bit random; she has one key scene in the story with her other appearances serving little purpose. At times the film can also feel a bit cheesy. It’s overall message that sometimes you should appreciate the little things in life rather than wanting more is a little too heavily presented during the opening and closing narration. They could benefit from keeping this message subtle, as it is through most of the film.
The only special feature of importance is the behind the scenes feature, telling how they created the effects of the film on such a small budget and discussing how the cast were chosen.
Overall Verdict: A well acted and directed thriller, which is capable of surprising throughout.
Special Features:
Behind the scenes
Trailer
Reviewer: Matt Mallinson