Review of Kill the Messenger (2014) by Quincytheodore — 04 Mar 2015

Kill The Messenger is a harrowing biography of a journalist who goes dangerously far to uncover secrets. It brings emotional struggles as Jeremy Renner aptly portrays the protagonist. However, for the near two hours playtime, the pace occasionally stutters and even though it has some particularly exceptional sequences, the film might lose momentum before reaching those moments.

A story of far reaching consequence lands on Gary Webb (Jeremy Renner), as a man with integrity he decides to follow this lead. It takes him to many different places and people, ultimately he begins to realize a connection between drug epidemic and CIA. After he publishes the story, he must face rifts on his career as well as personal life.

This is a very touchy subject, thankfully for the film Jeremy Renner plays the part admirably. He proves that he can deliver solid performance without guns or arrows. Much of the movie relies on his acting, Renner captures the intense trial his character must go through. From his doubt to keep his conviction, the external threat and also problems within his family.

There are a few kinks in the screenplay. For a movie that needs to keep the tension going, the scenes are sometimes fragmented. It switches a bit too quickly when a scene just gains momentum, or there's not enough continuity to keep its excitement in consistent flow. That being said, there's also a few great moments, especially towards the latter half, but they feel detached.

While problem in pacing persists, the sensitive material and good delivery by Jeremy Renner will keep the audience invested on trial and tribulation of the character.