Movie Review: "Unhinged"
Setting and Context:
"Unhinged" is a thriller set in a place dubbed "America’s Heartland," suggesting that the terrifying events it portrays could happen anywhere, even in the most seemingly peaceful areas. The movie was actually filmed in Louisiana, benefiting from the state's film production tax breaks.
Plot Overview:
The film opens with a montage of chaos—traffic jams, car crashes, riots, and violence—paired with grim news reports about job losses and understaffed police forces. This sets the stage for the film's central theme: the idea that in today’s world, you have to protect yourself because society is crumbling.
Main Characters:
- The Man (Russell Crowe): A mysterious, dangerous figure who could represent anyone. Crowe’s performance is intense, switching between ferocious outbursts and chilling calmness.
- Rachel (Caren Pistorius): A stressed single mom and hairdresser who becomes The Man’s target. She’s already having a bad day, rushing to get her son Kyle (Gabriel Bateman) to school and dealing with personal issues when she has an unfortunate encounter with The Man.
The Conflict:
Rachel honks her horn at The Man at a traffic light, unknowingly provoking someone who’s already on edge. The Man's morning has been far worse than Rachel’s, and he’s ready to snap. This minor incident spirals into a day-long nightmare as The Man stalks and terrorizes Rachel and those close to her.
Key Moments:
- Tense Chase: The bulk of the film is a relentless pursuit, with The Man following Rachel and causing mayhem.
- Coffee Shop Scene: One particularly tense moment involves Rachel’s friend and divorce lawyer (Jimmi Simpson) in a coffee shop.
- Violence: The Man’s attacks grow increasingly
brutal and intense, culminating in a series of shocking and violent encounters.
Themes and Tone:
"Unhinged" taps into widespread fears and frustrations, presenting a world where even minor conflicts can escalate into deadly situations. The movie explores themes of rage, disenfranchisement, and the breakdown of social order, though it does so in a way that feels more exploitative than insightful.
Performances:
- Russell Crowe: His portrayal of The Man is both menacing and over-the-top. Crowe brings a frightening intensity to the role, making the character a memorable villain.
- Caren Pistorius: She convincingly portrays a range of emotions, from panic to determination, as Rachel fights to protect herself and her son.
Execution and Impact:
The film’s strength lies in its ability to maintain tension and suspense throughout. However, it also leaves viewers with an unsettling feeling, as it seems to suggest sympathy for The Man's extreme actions. The movie implies that his rage, though excessive, is rooted in legitimate grievances, which can be a problematic message.
Audience Experience:
"Unhinged" was marketed as the first big movie to reopen theaters during the COVID-19 pandemic. While its intense chases and dramatic crashes might be more thrilling with an audience, the film's violent and pessimistic outlook might not be what people are looking for in these times.
**Conclusion:**
"Unhinged" is a tense, action-packed thriller that explores the dark side of road rage and societal breakdown. Russell Crowe’s performance is a highlight, adding depth to an otherwise straightforward plot. The film is effective in delivering shocks and suspense, but its underlying message might leave some viewers feeling uneasy. If you’re in the mood for a high-stakes, nerve-wracking chase, "Unhinged" might just be the movie for you.