Bill Skarsgard gives a captivating performance in Gus van Sant's hostage thriller. His unfiltered thoughts, along with his seeping rage and disdain make it difficult to look away from the actor's amazing dedication to the role. Dacre Montgomery also gives vulnerability and complexity to his character in his strong performance, while Myha'la also shines in a great supporting role.
However, the film never quite lives up to that lead performance and fails to subvert expectations of past films where one man is taking another hostage with demands from the authorities and critiques of the system. The shock of the true story's real-life circumstances also doesn't quite land, and the ending is irritating and disorienting at times. You're better off rewatching Dog Day Afternoon, instead.
Rating: ★★★
Review by: Gal Balaban
