Fractured
FRACTURED - NETFLIX
Brad Anderson's Fractured, for the first twenty or so minutes, is an engaging and entertaining thriller but it is that very enigmatic nature of mystery that is implemented with such brash and unrestrained value that ultimately ruins the proceeding running time.
Sam Worthington shows a varied array of emotional range and skill in the leading role of Ray Monroe. The material he is working with is strong for the most part, with a growing underbelly revolving around a troubled marriage and addiction. A lot of material for the actor to bring to life. In fact, throughout the feature Worthington suffices with a compelling performance, evoking a great sense of contextual frustration that keeps the audience on board.
The problems arise with the screenplay from writer Alan B. McElroy and the weak restraint from director Anderson. The screenplay is as predictable, flat and — ultimately — uninspiring as it progresses with a finale so incredibly condescending and extraordinarily conventional in how it wraps up. However, it is not the sole issue the film wrestles with throughout.
One of the most disappointing factors is that both McElroy and Anderson poorly execute the film‘s small reveals. There are critical moments when the film is trying to instigate a sense of mysticism through on-screen dialogue or background details. However, these elements are implemented in such an on-the-nose manner that the viewer would have to be both deaf and blind not to notice where this feature was heading.
Anyone with eyes and ears will put the pieces together the same second said moments are afforded to the audience on screen. Before long, the jigsaw has already come together and when the film plans its big reveal it leads to a flat lacklustre result. Therefore, when the feature is hammering in the desired impact of emotional tragedy and reveals the climatic events, it is sadly a lifeless entity that offers little in anticipation and conviction.
Fractured is released exclusively on NETFLIX October 11, 2019.
