Gripping Thriller Explores Depths of Depravity

Read Time:4 Minute, 8 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
The Notorious Finster
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Genre: Crime, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 49m
Director(s): Cooper Henderson, Robert Henderson
Writer(s): Robert Henderson
Cast: Amanda Evans, Britton Webb, Brian Anthony Wilson, Lindsay Corriveau
Where To Watch: available On Demand May 28, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Amanda Evans delivers a striking portrayal of Annie Sullivan in THE NOTORIOUS FINSTER, a journalist drawn deep into the eerie depths of true crime. She encounters a harrowing truth as she digs deeper into her most recent project. This film exploits the public’s obsession with crime, presenting a captivating and disturbing narrative.

THE NOTORIOUS FINSTER navigates through three well-defined acts that immerse viewers in a dark narrative. Initially, it sets the stage for the film with the grim realities of the ongoing murders (with some spectacular practical effects.) The story deepens as we explore Annie’s personal drive and professional commitment to uncovering the truth, shedding light on her complex character through intricate character studies as we discover what exactly makes her tick. In the third act, the story gets flipped on its head, and while certain aspects feel a little predictable, the larger arc will shock most.

Evans excels in her role, grounding the film with her compelling performance. She embodies Annie’s struggle against an omnipresent evil, supported by high production values that enhance the story. The film’s mood is meticulously crafted through expert makeup, detailed stunt coordination, and atmospheric special effects, elevating the eerie ambiance and intensifying the suspense. I don’t want to spoil the film, so I’ll avoid diving too deeply, but there is something so unsettling and authentic in the film's portrayal of what Annie gets sucked into towards the film's third act.

THE NOTORIOUS FINSTER resonates with contemporary cultural trends, reflecting a widespread fascination with the grim realities of true crime. While it doesn’t place the everyday podcast listener in its place, it’s close enough to feel unsettling. It’s more than just a thriller; it prompts us to examine our fascination with the macabre. The film tackles a thoughtful narrative encouraging introspection about our collective attraction to and repulsion from true crime.

A pivotal twist toward the film's conclusion challenges viewers to reconsider everything they've learned about Annie and the nature of evil. This narrative, in turn, revitalizes some familiar thriller elements of classic films, offering a fresh perspective that keeps viewers engaged up to the last frame. It also gives us a scene that, for better or worse, will be seared into my memory for the rest of my life (I know it was fake, but still.)

Certain moments in the film struggle, specifically some of the dialogue, which feels a little forced and lacks the fluidity to make the characters’ interactions appear more realistic. Additionally, some parts of the film could benefit from slower pacing, allowing for deeper character development and a more profound engagement with the thematic elements. I would have liked to have seen a deeper dive into the first and third acts of the film.

THE NOTORIOUS FINSTER is a welcome addition to the thriller genre. It melds a haunting narrative with solid filmmaking to deliver a psychological and reflective experience. The film's ability to maintain tension while promoting reflection on our darkest curiosities showcases the director's visionary approach.

THE NOTORIOUS FINSTER invites viewers to confront the shadows lurking within through a cinematic lens that blends true crime elements with stark, universal truths about human nature. This film offers a narrative experience that lingers in the psyche. It prompts discussions and reflections on the nature of evil and the pursuit of truth in journalism, resonating with audiences long after they finish the film. Just how far would you go to save yourself?

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[photo courtesy of CRANKED UP FILMS]

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