Review of Cold Pursuit (2019) by Davrosdaleks1 — 11 Feb 2019

In Cold Pursuit, based on the Norwegian film Krafitidioten or, as it is known in the US, In Order of Disappearance starring Stellan Skarsgard, Liam Neeson is a hard-working, respectable member of the community and runs his own snow plow business. His life is turned upside down when his son is murdered, resulting in him going on a quest of vengeance. This seems like a traditional Neeson revenge/action flick. It definitely starts like one. However, what develops is a pretty entertaining dark comedy. Cold Pursuit is this decade's Fargo.

A big issue with revenge/crime films is that they often feel by-the numbers. This one keeps things lively. There are many surprisingly clever little actions or bits of dialogue. The movie features a wide cast of unique and interesting characters. In the middle, Neeson is missing for large periods of time, but you'll like the others enough that it doesn't matter. The cast is great all across the board. There are just too many great performances to all individually focus on. Though particular notice should be given to Murder on the Orient Express' Tom Bateman, who always steals the scene as as an odbball control freak/vegan mob boss, and Tom Jackson as a contrasting mob boss in a more controlled, but emotional performance.

Film looks great. The movie mostly takes place in a snowy Colorado resort town and the parts out in nature are just breathtaking. There is a particular repeated visual throughout this movie that is really clever and ties the whole thing together. The movie also has great filming locations; some really eye-catching buildings here.

Biggest weak point is that running at almost 2 hrs. the movie is longer than it needed to be. Some of the moments feel a little too movie-ish and unnatural. Good thing is that Neeson does the same angry but measured tough guy routine that he does so well. Bad thing is that it's the exact same routine he has does several times.

As I said, this is like Fargo. If you don't want things getting too dark, this isn't for you. But if you want something Cohen Brothers/Tarantinoesque than you'll probably like this.