“Reptile” is a 2023 American crime thriller that promises to keep you at the edge of your seat. Directed by Grant Singer in his feature-film directorial debut, “Reptile” brings a chilling and complex mystery to life. The film stars the incredibly talented Benicio del Toro alongside Justin Timberlake, Alicia Silverstone, and a host of other well-known actors. With a dark storyline, intriguing characters, and gripping performances, “Reptile” has received much attention regarding both its performances and the capability to keep the audience guessing until the last minute of the movie.
Movie Reviews
The general consensus for “Reptile” is a good one, especially with how the film’s different casts performed. Particularly, a seasoned detective unfolding a tangled web of deceit and crime under the benediction of Benicio del Toro unearth depth from detective Tom Nichols in his investigation involving betrayal, corruption, and tragic loss with this slow-burn thriller escalating the tension while impactful revelations at the end.
Some have pointed out that this is a very cinematic film, something one would expect from someone of Grant Singer’s background in music videos, and that it has an atmospheric feel. Others have mentioned the pacing is frenetic and can drag for viewers expecting quick resolution in a genre that traditionally prefers to speed up the thrills. Still, its moody atmosphere and the elaborate nature of the plot continue to be widely praised.
Cast & Release Date
The “Reptile” film has an ensemble cast with standout performances, led by Detective Tom Nichols played by Benicio del Toro. His commanding presence grounds the movie, and he plays a character battling personal demons as well as investigating a brutal murder. Alongside him comes Justin Timberlake as the victim’s boyfriend, Will Grady, who will end up being the leading suspect as the investigation of his boyfriend’s murder starts to unfold. Subtly, Timberlake gives the performance that reflects the vulnerability of the character and thus develops a complex figure in this crime drama.
Alicia Silverstone plays Judy Nichols, the wife of Tom, and her character lends a personal depth to the movie as she interacts with her husband while he is dealing with his case. Other notable cast members include Michael Pitt as Eli Phillips, Ato Essandoh as Dan Cleary, and Eric Bogosian as Captain Robert Allen. Each actor brings their character to life with precision, enriching the film’s multifaceted narrative.
“Reptile” premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 7, 2023, and was released in select theaters across the United States on September 22, 2023. For those who missed its theatrical release, the film began streaming on Netflix on September 29, 2023, making it easily accessible for audiences worldwide.
Trailer
The trailer for “Reptile” is one perfect introduction to the film’s dark and atmospheric world. It teases the film’s central murder mystery while showing us glimpses of the lead performances. The intense mood of the trailer is set by a haunting score and quick cuts, where suspense lurks around each corner. Benicio del Toro’s intense look hints at the emotional weight of the role, drawing viewers in. The trailer even gives us impressions of Justin Timberlake and Alicia Silverstone, arousing questions about the importance of their characters in solving the case. Thus, it initiates a movie that can be on a roll from start to end.
Plot
It follows the brutal murder of Summer Elswick, a female victim who is found dead in a rural Maine house, where she and her boyfriend, Will Grady played by Justin Timberlake, had been trying to sell the place as realtors. It’s up to the shoulders of Detective Tom Nichols and his partner Dan Cleary (played by Ato Essandoh) to solve the murder mystery. Will Grady goes through shock and becomes one of the suspects in the crime.
The deeper the detectives dig, secrets begin to unravel. Multiple suspects are pointed out, with Will’s involvement in the crime being one of them. Things take a darker turn as it is revealed that Summer had been involved with her ex-husband Sam Gifford, and DNA analysis connects Sam to the murder. The investigation is very deep, leading to shocking twists and revelations that challenge the understanding of the case by the detectives.
As Tom Nichols is grappling with his personal demons, a series of connections unfold to reveal that go beyond the murder itself. Corruption, betrayal, and secrets entombed for years are forced upon the dark masked movie to uncover the half-vicious crime committed.
Songs and Score
The film’s score is done by Yair Elazar Glotman, who is known for his atmospheric and haunting compositions. The music complements the tone of the film by having a mix of suspenseful beats and eerie sounds that create tension in each scene. Besides Glotman’s score, the film has tracks by Arca, whose experimental electronic soundscapes further enhance the movie’s dark and gritty vibe.
The soundtrack plays a crucial role in the setting of the mood throughout the film. The combination of atmospheric sounds and intense music adds to the emotional weight of the story, keeping the audience invested in the mystery unfolding.
Film Location
Filming for “Reptile” took place in Atlanta, Georgia, where the production crew created a moody and atmospheric environment that suited the film’s dark themes. The rural Maine setting, where the murder takes place, was replicated through meticulous production design, with wooded areas and isolated locations that add to the film’s haunting feel.
The movie also utilizes interior settings that depict the gritty, tense environment of a police procedural. Michael Gioulakis’s cinematography is used to bring life to the visuals, with moody lighting and dramatic camera angles that raise the tension. From the cold, empty space of a murder scene to the claustrophobic confines of a police station, the setting amplifies the tension of the film.
Conclusion
“Reptile” is a gripping crime thriller with an excellent cast, complex plot, and atmospheric soundtrack to keep audiences at the edge of their seats. Benicio del Toro’s nuanced performance as a detective unravelling the complexity of the case elevates this film, and the supporting cast adds depth and intrigue to the story. With all the twists and turns, “Reptile” will be a great watch for those who are into crime thrillers.
Reptile” is now on Netflix for all the suspense-hungry viewers to be taken into a thrilling movie, immersed in a dark and thought-provoking thriller around the world.
