Digital Spy: Justin Timberlake’s Netflix movie “Reptile” lands low Rotten Tomatoes score
Overview
Netflix’s new crime thriller “Reptile” starring Justin Timberlake has received a mediocre reception, as evidenced by its low Rotten Tomatoes rating. The film, which currently sits at 45% on the review aggregator site, centers around Detective Tom Nichols, played by Benicio Del Toro, as he investigates the murder of a young real estate agent. Despite its star-studded cast, including Alicia Silverstone, Michael Pitt, Karl Glusman, and Sky Ferreira, “Reptile” fails to impress critics with its lackluster storytelling and disappointing ending.
The Critics’ Verdict
The Guardian
The Guardian criticizes “Reptile” for its lack of a clear and satisfying reveal, noting that the filmmakers seem to lose interest in the gothic-horror aspect of the murder as the plot progresses. While they praise Benicio Del Toro’s performance, calling him the driving force of the film, they suggest that successive script rewrites may have buried the film’s original ideas.
TIME
TIME highlights the slow and deliberate pacing of “Reptile,” leading to a conclusion that is not particularly surprising. They also criticize the use of Bob Dylan’s “Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door” in the film’s big finale, arguing that the song is so closely associated with another movie that it should be off-limits for other films. They suggest that, despite the presence of numerous red herrings, the film fails to provide a satisfying experience for viewers.
The Hollywood Reporter
The Hollywood Reporter acknowledges the skill of director Grant Singer in the first half of the film, but criticizes the lack of restraint in the second half. They argue that the film’s attempts to be clever become tiresome and that the initial tricks that impressed audiences eventually become hard to endure.
Variety
Variety characterizes “Reptile” as a film that presents itself as smart but ultimately fails to live up to its promise. They argue that the film becomes too consumed by its own premise and loses sight of its intended goal.
IndieWire
IndieWire criticizes Justin Timberlake’s performance, comparing it unfavorably to Ben Affleck’s role in “Gone Girl” but without the psychological intrigue or earnestness. They also express disappointment with Alicia Silverstone’s portrayal, finding it ill-fitting within the puzzling narrative. The supporting cast is criticized for falling into cliches and failing to distinguish themselves.
Analysis and Perspective
The lukewarm reception of “Reptile” raises questions about the quality of Netflix’s original films and the pitfalls that big-name actors can encounter when taking on roles in streaming productions. This film highlights the importance of a cohesive and engaging script in capturing audiences, as well as the need for thoughtful direction and strong performances to bring the story to life.
While it is not uncommon for films to receive mixed reviews from critics, the consistently negative assessments of key aspects such as the storytelling, pacing, and performances suggest deeper issues within the production. The criticism of the film’s lack of a satisfying conclusion and the reliance on tired genre tropes also underscores the importance of originality and fresh ideas in captivating viewers.
Furthermore, the comparison made between “Reptile” and other successful films like “Gone Girl” serves as a reminder that audiences have high expectations when it comes to crime thrillers. The film fails to deliver the psychological complexity and intrigue needed to stand out in a crowded genre.
Editorial and Advice
The underwhelming reception of “Reptile” on Rotten Tomatoes suggests that viewers may want to approach this Netflix original with caution. Despite its star-studded cast, the film’s lackluster script, pacing issues, and unsatisfying conclusion make it a less than compelling watch. If you’re seeking a gripping crime thriller that delivers on its promises, you may want to explore other options available on the streaming platform.
Additionally, the disappointment expressed by reviewers highlights the need for streaming platforms like Netflix to prioritize quality storytelling in their original content. While big-name actors may attract attention, it is the strength of the narrative and the execution of the film that ultimately determines its success.
For filmmakers and actors alike, “Reptile” serves as a reminder that the power of a strong script should not be underestimated. Taking on projects solely based on the popularity of the platform or the cast involved can lead to missed opportunities for both the artists and the audience.
Overall, the reception of “Reptile” on Rotten Tomatoes demonstrates the importance of critical engagement and thoughtful storytelling in the world of streaming entertainment. While not every film will resonate with every viewer, the ability to create captivating narratives that transcend genre conventions remains a key factor in capturing audience attention and delivering a satisfying viewing experience.
<< photo by David Clode >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
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