Review of Nightcrawler (2014) by Thequietgamer — 26 Apr 2015

The line between observer and participant is crossed in this beautifully deranged thriller. Scenarios are intense as we watch our lead Gyllenhaal run into dangerous situations that could land him in prison or in the grave. His motives aren't exactly disagreeable, but his methods are. The movie has a lot to say about modern journalism tactics.

The whole film succeeds thanks to how well the character Louis Bloom is written and how well he is portrayed by Gyllenhaal who gives another fantastic performance. He is a character who is equally creepy, brilliant, deranged, and likable. It's this combination that makes the character do things you won't agree with, but still keep you rooting for him at the same time.

I have to give special praise for how the film is shot. The gritty, almost grainy look of the world makes it look like one of those crime-thrillers from the 80's. For my fellow gamers out there I guess you could compare it's look to that of Hotline Miami. It gives the film a touch of a retro vibe.

"Nightcrawler" is dark, creepy, and at times vicious. It's a lot like it's protagonist in that respect. It's a wild and smart ride. One that you should take if you are in the mood for a thought-provoking piece of entertainment. It's unlike anything we've seen in a while.