Review of Nightcrawler (2014) by Hassan I — 21 Aug 2015

Jake Gyllenhaal delivers the best performance of his career in "Nightcrawler", a fascinating, gripping and highly suspenseful thriller that plunges you deep into the life of a psychopath. Although this is only the directorial debut of first-time filmmaker Dan Gilroy, it's seriously hard to believe.

The first movies that directors make are usually not their best, but "Nightcrawler" is a rare exception of a film. Propelled by fantastic performances, a razor-sharp script, atmospheric cinematography and a relevant message, this is a meticulously crafted thriller that doesn't feel at all like a first-time effort from a director.

Not only does it announce the arrival of a fabulous filmmaker, but it also cements Jake Gyllenhaal as one of the finest actors of his generation. Absolutely mesmerizing, he has never been better or gone through such extreme lengths to play a character.

The rest of the cast is astonishing, all with the exception of a slightly underused Riz Ahmed. While suitable enough for the role, this is not the actor at his best. A rushed ending also prevents this film from being a true classic.

As long as you let these problems slide, however, "Nightcrawler" is not a film to be missed. If you're a fan of Jake Gyllenhaal, it's a dream come true...