Michael's Movie Grade: B
A well-made crime thriller.
This film marks a real departure for director Darren Aronofsky as it is mostly a simply straightforward crime thriller. However, as a straightforward thriller this one is quite good. The main character is likable (and played very well by Austin Butler), the story moves at a fast pace and there are some great twists throughout. This is a rare modern-day thriller when I didn't always know what was going to happen next. What also really helps this movie is its New York setting. New York City is just as much of a character here as any of the characters played by actors. The movie offers a very atmospheric and absorbing look at New York City in the late 1990's, that makes this film feel all the more real to us. This look at New York City is further advanced by a colorful and fun supporting cast. The movie also benefits from some surprisingly effective emotional moments and some good moments of quirky humor.
What doesn't always work about this movie is its tonal unbalance. The quirky and more comedic moments often feel quite at odds with the more realistic violence (which can often feel gratuitous).
Despite its flaws, this is a well-made and absorbing movie.
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