MOVIE REVIEW
Dusk for a Hitman (Crépuscule pour un tueur)
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Genre: Crime, Action, Thriller
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 47m
Director(s): Raymond St-Jean
Writer(s): Martin Girard, Raymond St-Jean
Cast: Éric Bruneau, Benoît Gouin, Rose-Marie Perreault, Sylvain Marcel, Simon Landry-Desy, Joakim Robillard
Language: French with English subtitles
Where To Watch: on digital and On Demand April 19, 2024, Apple TV pre-order here www.tv.apple.com

RAVING REVIEW: In DUSK FOR A HITMAN, Raymond St-Jean sweeps us into a stormy 1970s Montreal, where ethics and existence collide. The movie casts a compelling look at the life of Donald Lavoie, portrayed by Éric Bruneau, whose character grapples with the dichotomies of survival and betrayal. The film offers a visceral portrait of a man's inner conflict, served with a narrative as chilling as the Canadian winter. The film focuses heavily on what it means to be in this situation instead of the larger world around him. I think that, ultimately, it is one of the film's most vital aspects.

As we delve into the murky depths of Quebec's criminal underworld, Lavoie emerges as a tortured soul trapped by Claude Dubois's criminal empire. His journey through dark deals and desperate choices creates a rich maze of tension and drama. This narrative core supports an intricate exploration of redemption and moral ambiguity, capturing the audience's imagination with every scene.

Director Raymond St-Jean, a seasoned risk taker with shifting genres, delivers a visually and emotionally potent drama. Leveraging his extensive experience, St-Jean constructs a narrative that balances real-world events with some creative liberties, prioritizing depth over a strict historical recounting. This blend enriches the film's appeal, making it accessible and more relatable.

While Lavoie's character is meticulously portrayed, displaying layers of complexity and emotional depth, other characters, like Lavoie’s wife, played by Rose-Marie Perreault, are not as fully realized. This inconsistency in character development occasionally undermines the emotional impact of their interactions and slightly diminishes the storytelling's overall potency.

Technically, DUSK FOR A HITMAN shines with Jean-François Lord's sharp cinematography, which captures the essence of a gritty criminal world in what feels like a world of the 70s to perfection and a score that intensifies the tension in every scene. These elements meld seamlessly, enhancing the narrative and deepening the viewer's immersion.

However, DUSK FOR A HITMAN's slow-burn approach might only cater to some tastes. Its deliberate pacing and complex narrative suit viewers who prefer depth and drama over fast-paced action. The film's distinct style also presents a unique cultural perspective that might require adjustment for those unfamiliar with the regional backdrop.

In conclusion, DUSK FOR A HITMAN is a thought-provoking exploration of the choices that shape us. It is a welcomed addition to Quebec cinema and showcases Raymond St-Jean's versatility and skill as a director. While it might not satisfy those seeking blockbuster thrills, it offers a meaningful and introspective look at the human condition, framed within the dark alleys of crime and consequence. This film is a commendable piece that provokes reflection and discussion, a testament to the enduring power of storytelling in exploring the complexities of life and morality.

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[photo courtesy of SABAN FILMS]

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