In 2013, "Jack Reacher" took us by surprise with its unique approach to the action genre, featuring a protagonist whose calm demeanor belied a capacity for controlled chaos. "Rebel Ridge" echoes similar tones and narrative beats, but brings enough to the table to stand on its own. In a year marked by underwhelming Netflix releases, "Rebel Ridge" emerges as one of the biggest surprises - a film that not only thrills but also challenges viewers with its thought-provoking narrative.
The story follows Terry Richmond (Aaron Pierre), a former Marine who travels to the small town of Shelby Springs to post bail for his cousin. However, his plans go awry when two police officers force him off the road and seize his money through civil forfeiture. Stranded without funds and time running out for his cousin, Terry must navigate the corrupt local law enforcement to reclaim what is rightfully his.
"Rebel Ridge" takes its time building tension, favoring a slow-burn approach that prioritizes narrative development and its exploration of real-world legal corruption. This deliberate pacing sets the stage for an intricate tale that, at its core, feels grounded and believable. Richmond’s struggle and eventual battle against the system feels authentic and earned. What sets this film apart is its surprising restraint: despite numerous action sequences, the body count remains at zero. Terry Richmond is not a killer, and the film’s choreography skillfully reflects his non-lethal approach to combat. The intricate, carefully staged set pieces make the action even more compelling, with each confrontation demanding creativity rather than brute force. Aaron Pierre’s portrayal of Terry Richmond is powerful, bringing a quiet intensity to the role that perfectly complements the film’s more cerebral moments. Meanwhile, Don Johnson’s performance as the corrupt police chief offers the perfect foil, with his veteran presence adding weight to the film’s power dynamics. However, despite these strengths, the film falters in its latter half. As the narrative picks up pace, certain plot resolutions feel hurried and overly convenient, detracting slightly from the carefully built narrative. Overall, Rebel Ridge is impressive combining smart storytelling with inventive action sequences.
Rebel Ridge Movie Review: Smarts First, Action Later
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