Review of The Iceman (2012) by Gina W — 07 Jun 2013

Another based on truth drama which fails to deliver. This one a multiple serial killer who kept his other life hidden from his family over several decades. Could have been much more. Blank emotionless killings lead onto a slither of humanity as he allows a call girl hiding in a wardrobe who witnessed one of his executions to escape.

Desperation as he is forced to liaise with his ex-boss' henchman leads to conviction. A unsympathetic lead role does not help matters though all the principal players do what they can with a reasonable script but the lack of sympathy means you don't actually care when he gets his comeuppance.

Ryder ages well in another great supporting role but is rightly overshadowed by Michael Shannon in the title role. Ray Liotta, Stephen Dorff, and unrecognisable versions of Chris Evans and David Swimmer feature in smaller but pivotal roles.

A great character piece but just doesn't add up to the sum of its parts, sadly.