Mr. Brooks
2007 · Directed by Bruce A. Evans
Original language: English
- crime
- thriller
The story
A psychological thriller about a man who is sometimes controlled by his murder-and-mayhem-loving alter ego.
What it’s like
Cool, clean commercial-thriller polish: crisp daylight exteriors of Portland, Oregon, rain-slicked streets and glassy corporate interiors, with a restless handheld energy that tips into stylised, almost comic-book flourishes when the alter ego takes over. Cinematography leans on sharp contrast and tight two-shots, and the photography motif gives the frames a deliberate, looking-through-a-lens quality. Sound is driven by a propulsive, synth-tinged score that punches up the suspense beats, with sudden silences before violence. Vibe: slick, tense, a little darkly playful. It suits a late-night watch with the lights low, or a loose weekend thriller where you want twists and momentum more than atmosphere. Pacing is brisk, the tone wry and self-aware, and the emotional core is a respectable, successful man slowly losing control of the part of himself he has long managed, with a cat-and-mouse investigator closing in. Intensity is moderate to high: several murders shown on screen, some graphic bloodshed and stabbing, plus strong language and a tense, menacing atmosphere, but little sexual content. Best for viewers who enjoy serial-killer thrillers with a sly sense of humour and don't mind violence played for suspense and dark irony.
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