Following the brutal murder of a young real estate agent, a hardened detective attempts to uncover the truth in a case where nothing is as it seems, and, by doing so, dismantles the illusions in his own life.
Reptile, directed by Grant Singer and headlined by the formidable Benicio Del Toro, embarks on a suspenseful journey that initially teases the idyllic facade of suburban life. However, as the plot unfolds, it delves into a world of mystery, mistrust, and danger, although not without its flaws. The film opens with a picturesque portrayal of American middle and upper-class life, featuring grand white houses symbolizing the allure of prosperity. However, this illusion of affluence is quickly shattered by a shocking murder, setting the stage for a dark and gripping detective drama.
At the heart of the investigation is Tom Nichols, portrayed by Benicio Del Toro. Tom stands out as a well-adjusted movie cop, a rarity in the genre. His interactions with his wife Judy, played by Alicia Silverstone, and his colleagues appear harmonious. This suburban setting, captured visually by cinematographer Mike Gioulakis, serves as a contrasting backdrop to the impending chaos.
However, Reptile fails to fully exploit the potential of this suburban nightmare. While Tom's character displays eccentricities on the job, he is observant, rule-driven, and straightforward. His personal life, complete with square dancing and poker nights, is enriched by the unwavering support of his intelligent and forthright wife, Judy, and her extended family, which includes his police colleagues.
Despite the all-pervading mood of mistrust that engulfs the film, it remains the singular note, varying in shades of unease. The movie occasionally touches on worthy moments of tension and insight, but the narrative occasionally becomes convoluted and derivative. Benicio Del Toro's mesmerizing and authentic performance elevates Reptile above its occasional shortcomings. His on-screen chemistry with Alicia Silverstone's Judy exudes warmth and passion, with a subtle undercurrent of tension stemming from Tom's jealousy.
Reptile immerses the audience in a world where danger lurks around every corner. The incessant late-night phone calls and unexpected visitors at the door contribute to an atmosphere of constant unease. The film's tension is further heightened by the ever-encroaching headlights in rearview mirrors and an unrelenting sense of impending peril. Jump scares are abundant, and trust is a rare commodity in this enigmatic world.
Every scene is steeped in an aura of mystery, which works to the film's advantage. However, the leisurely pace in the second half of the movie robs viewers of a more intense and engaging experience. The pool of suspects is limited but surprisingly filled with potential psychopaths. One aspect of Reptile that shines is its craftsmanship. Cinematographer Mike Gioulakis masterfully captures the sinister underbelly of suburban life. The polished imagery brings to life the hidden darkness lurking beneath the facade of the seemingly peaceful neighbourhoods.
Yet, it is the performances that truly carry Reptile. Benicio Del Toro, in particular, delivers a nuanced and understated performance that draws the audience in. His ability to convey a myriad of emotions beneath his calm exterior is nothing short of remarkable. He never overplays or falls short of what is required, making his role a standout in the film. Sometimes, a stellar performance can compensate for a less-than-perfect script. Del Toro's portrayal showcases his unparalleled instincts as an actor, with a face that can convey a multitude of emotions beneath the surface.
Director Grant Singer successfully evokes a grimy and noir atmosphere, teeming with tension and suspense. The overcast skies and sinister mood contribute to the film's overall sense of foreboding. However, Reptile truly excels when the camera is focused on Benicio Del Toro, who effortlessly carries the noir-ish procedural thriller on his capable shoulders. On the other hand, Justin Timberlake's performance falls somewhat short of the mark. His portrayal leaves one with the impression that he is trying too hard, failing to match the authenticity and depth of Del Toro's acting.
The first hour of Reptile builds a solid foundation, but as the storyline becomes increasingly convoluted, it loses some of its initial engagement. The mystery's eventual clarity detracts from the suspense and intrigue that the film initially promises.
Reptile is a mixed bag. While it boasts moments of genuine tension, an authentic performance by Benicio Del Toro, and evocative cinematography, it falls short in terms of a convoluted plot and the less convincing performances of certain cast members. Nevertheless, for fans of the noir detective thriller genre, Reptile is worth a watch, if only for the compelling presence of Benicio Del Toro.
Reptile was released on Netflix on September 7, 2023