Review of Edge of Darkness (2010) by Candace W — 05 Oct 2010

Much has been made of Mel Gibson's return to the big screen with 'Edge of Darkness'. And it seems he's honed his skills during the gap.

Mel Gibson plays Tom Craven, a Boston detective. His career-focused daughter Emma calls in for a surprise visit, when she is shot and killed on his doorstep. Everybody presumes Tom is the target, but he knows differently. His quest for answers reveals hidden truths about large corporations and state senators, and puts his own life at risk.

There isn't very much new to this film. Ultimately, it's a revenge thriller, cop-turned-renegade, and the familiar formula is comforting. But director Martin Campbell - who reinvigorated the Bond franchise with 'Casino Royale' manages to keep the thrills coming.

'Edge of Darkness' is based on a BBC miniseries, and fans of the British detective genre will love this. Of course, unlike your average BBC drama, it's high-octane, with loads of gunfights, car chases and loud noises.

But don't be fooled by all the action. This film has a surprising depth to it - there are some truly touching moments that brought a lump to my throat. The revenge thriller works for a reason. We're totally behind somebody whose child has been murdered - it speaks to a parent's deepest fear.

Mel Gibson plays the role perfectly, alternating between grieving father and bad-ass detective without missing a beat. He is a lot more rugged and a whole lot more grounded since his 'Lethal Weapon' days, and he brings a distinctly human aspect to what could have been just another action romp.

The supporting cast is superb - although after a while the senators and security team start blurring in a haze of black suits. Ray Winstone is fantastic as Jedburgh, the "consultant" hired to make the murder of Emma Craven disappear. And Danny Huston radiates evil as corporate sleazebag Jack Bennett.

Sure, you've seen it all before. But that means you know what you're getting into - and that's a great night's entertainment.