Review of Nightcrawler

Nightcrawler (2014)
8/10
If it bleeds, it leads.
17 April 2023
Nightcrawler follows the story of Louis Bloom, a desperate and unemployed young man who stumbles upon the world of crime journalism while scavenging for scrap metal in Los Angeles. Intrigued by the fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping nature of the job, Bloom starts to immerse himself in the seedy underworld of crime reporting, chasing after violent crime scenes and recording footage to sell to news stations. As he becomes more and more obsessed with his newfound career, Bloom's moral compass starts to blur, and he becomes willing to do whatever it takes to capture the most sensational footage, including manipulating crime scenes and crossing ethical boundaries. Along the way, Bloom forms a relationship with Nina, played by Rene Russo, a veteran news producer who is also willing to push the boundaries of journalism to boost ratings.

One of the standout elements of Nightcrawler is Jake Gyllenhaal's mesmerizing performance as Louis Bloom. Gyllenhaal's portrayal of Bloom is chilling and captivating, as he fully embodies the character's desperation, cunning, and relentless ambition. Gyllenhaal's physical transformation for the role, as he lost weight and gauntly portrays Bloom's manic energy, is also noteworthy and adds to the overall sense of unease in the film.

The film's screenplay, also written by Dan Gilroy, is a dark and satirical commentary on the world of sensationalist media and the blurred lines between journalism and exploitation. Nightcrawler raises thought-provoking questions about the ethics of journalism, the pursuit of success at any cost, and the impact of sensationalism on the public's appetite for news. The film's sharp critique of the media industry and its portrayal of the dark underbelly of crime journalism are disturbing and thought-provoking.

The direction by Dan Gilroy is skillful, as he creates a tense and eerie atmosphere throughout the film. The night-time setting of Los Angeles adds to the film's noir-like aesthetic, with its neon lights and gritty streets serving as a backdrop to the unfolding story. The use of tight close-ups and intense editing adds to the tension, creating a sense of urgency and unease that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Nightcrawler is not without its flaws, as some viewers may find the film's dark and morally ambiguous themes unsettling. The depiction of violence and exploitation in the pursuit of sensational footage may be disturbing to some, and the film's bleak and cynical view of the media industry may leave audiences feeling uncomfortable. However, these elements are intentional and serve to drive home the film's thought-provoking messages.

In conclusion, Nightcrawler is a gripping and thought-provoking film that offers a dark and satirical take on crime journalism and the pursuit of success at any cost. With a standout performance by Jake Gyllenhaal, skillful direction by Dan Gilroy, and a sharp screenplay, Nightcrawler is a compelling and unsettling exploration of ambition, morality, and the dark side of the media industry. If you are a fan of intense thrillers that challenge societal norms, Nightcrawler is a must-watch film.
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