Confined Spaces, Infinite Suspense
Read Time:3 Minute, 5 Second
MOVIE REVIEW
Trunk – Locked In
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Genre: Drama, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director(s): Marc Schießer
Writer(s): Marc Schießer
Cast: Sina Martens, Artjom Gilz, Luise Helm, Poal Cairo, Charles Rettinghaus, Janina Sachau
Language: German with English subtitles
Where To Watch: debuts worldwide on January 26, 2024, on Prime Video
RAVING REVIEW: In the heart-pounding opening of TRUNK – LOCKED IN, you’re immediately thrown into a whirlwind of suspense as Malina (Sina Martens,) a medical student, awakens in the trunk of a moving car, unknowingly headed for the heat-pounding ride of her lifetime. Director Marc Schießer takes us on a roller coaster of emotion while messing with our hearts and minds; in his cinematic debut, he transforms this confined space into a vast landscape of tension and survival.
Martens, as the quick-thinking Malina, is the soul of this film. Her portrayal seamlessly blends vulnerability and resilience, making her a hero we all cheer for. Using her phone as a lifeline and its commentary on technology’s limits and advantages in crises adds an exciting layer to the narrative. My biggest issue is that the film ignores one of modern-day cell phones’ most significant technical limitations.
The cinematography used in the film is a visual feast; it’s fascinating because you don’t often think of a confined and claustrophobic space as having gorgeous cinematography, but their use of lighting casts a spell of suspense over the audience. The way they make the confined trunk space seem vast is a testament to their craft. I promise you that this film offers some magnificent “landscapes” comparable to the vastness of an untouched desert.
The plot of TRUNK stands out for its ability to keep viewers guessing. Schießer plays within the single-location thriller genre but adds his unique twists that captivate throughout. Including flashback sequences enriches Malina’s backstory, adding depth and complexity to her character. The narrative throws you a curveball whenever you think you have the story figured out.
TRUNK is a remarkable feat for Schießer. He balances atmospheric tension with innovative plot moments to help keep the audience engaged and on edge, building up to a satisfying and surprising finale. Who can you trust?
TRUNK – LOCKED IN is a welcome addition to the thriller genre, setting itself apart with a captivating storyline and strong performances, especially by Martens. While occasionally treading some familiar ground, the film does so with enough innovation and style to keep the audience riveted. Schießer demonstrates a profound understanding of building suspense and crafting a compelling narrative within the confines of a single location. This film is an intriguing cinematic journey, showcasing that simplicity, when executed well, can lead to powerful storytelling.
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[photo courtesy of PRIME VIDEO]
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Hi Chris,
thank you so much for the great review, much appreciated!
Just a quick note: the info in the header seems to be from another film. Could you please check and adjust if it’s not too much trouble?
All the best from Wuppertal, Germany.
Melina,
Thank you so much for letting me know! I’ve updated the review with the correct information; sorry about that!
No problem, thanks for the quick update.