Review of Blood Work (2002) by Filipeneto — 25 Nov 2018

I never knew the work of Clint Eastwood very well, neither as an actor nor as a director. I've seen some movies directed or starred by him, but he's usually one of those actors/directors that I've never paid attention to. It's a mistake, I know, and I am willing to correct that. He's one of those people who know cinema with an intimacy and proximity reserved for very few and it was with great pleasure that I watched him in this film, where he accumulates the functions of director and protagonist.

The story is simple, but it works quite well: a retired police officer, who received the heart of a murdered donor, is invited by the donor's sister to investigate the crime. However, he quickly realizes that her death is linked to a serial killer he was trying to arrest when he fell ill. Of course, there are some details that I found unrealistic, such as the simple fact that a family member of an organ donor is able to identify, by chance, one of the patients who received those organs. I cannot imagine this happening in real life. But if you decide to ignore these details, the plot works and creates an effective and elegant thriller. There are good action scenes, but they are punctual and may not satisfy the appetite of those who seek it.

Clint Eastwood showed remarkable agility, given his age and even anticipating, as is often the case, the use of stunts. And besides, he adapted perfectly to the character and to what he asked of him as an actor. Jeff Daniels also deserves congratulations. He has a character that begins by looking totally insignificant, but ultimately proving to be important. I don't want to say what's going to happen, I'll just recommend you to keep an eye out for the way he talks and behaves. Wanda de Jesus fulfilled what was asked of her, and gave the film a romantic and feminine touch.

Ultimately, this movie is worth for the good performance of the actors and the good plot. It is not the best movie of any of those involved, but it has value for what it is, allowing us an hour and a half of good entertainment.