Review of End of Watch (2012) by Zak S — 14 Jun 2013

Great film. The doc style was a bit ugly at times, but it worked for the story and helped sell the sense of ever-present realism. The two leads had great chemistry. I was really invested in their relationship by the end. There were at least a couple scenes that swam against the tide. By the end, I got them, and I can see why they were there, but I don't think they were necessary. Some of the score bugged me. THAT SAID, I highly recommend this film. Refreshing. Available on Netflix Instant at the time of this review. Check it out. More thought below, but they contain...

*SPOILERS*.

I cried at the funeral. That's how much I cared about these guys. I felt so much tension during the shootout, and I was so worried, but it seemed like they were going to make it after they escaped the apartment, but then everything went bad. The scene following Z's death before the funeral felt poorly executed to me. It was a bit cheesy. It kind of ruined that moment. Then the scene following the funeral felt like a weak and misplaced attempt at giving the film an upbeat ending. It was a really nice moment between partners that highlighted their friendship, and I can appreciate the juxtaposition, but I felt cheated out of an emotional ending. It was like the filmmakers got nervous that people wouldn't like the film if it had a sad ending. Screw that. Let me be sad. [4/5 STARS] [060813].