The Little Things - Modern Classic

     

Stream it on HBO Max 

        Ambiguity is like a double-edged sword when applied to the narrative; it can be a valuable tool for storytelling or a desperate crutch to hide laziness. I have always believed that ambiguity works best when it is used properly and with justified reasons. A fine example is in the final shot of Christopher Nolan’s masterpiece, Inception. Today’s movie, The Little Things, serves as a modern reminder of how to use ambiguity to your advantage and why it can be such a powerful narrative ploy under the right circumstances. While the movie as a whole may not be all that groundbreaking or nuanced, its stellar cast, visceral visuals, and provocative writing elevate the film from “standard” to “intriguing enough.” This is one neo-noir worthy of the label. 

Set in California in the year 1990, before mobile phones and DNA testing were around, the story follows Deacon (Denzel Washington), a deputy in the sheriff's department, visiting downtown L.A. for an evidence pick-up & certification. While in town, he runs into Detective Jim Baxter (Rami Malek), working on an unusual murder case. As Deacon tags along, he discovers that this murder is eerily similar to one he himself was investigating a few years prior and is convinced that it is likely the same perpetrator he couldn’t catch. Deacon decides to unofficially help in the investigation, which apparently points to a clearly disturbed man named Albert (Jared Leto), who becomes their favorite suspect. Still, due to a lack of sufficient evidence, they can’t go any further into their investigation. So, the detectives decide to take matters into their own hands, which may or may not come back to bite them in the ass later down the line. 

As I suggested, this movie isn’t anything incredible, nor does it have anything that hasn’t already been done before. However, that does not detract from the fact that it is a well-made, well polished, and well-presented story. I believe that it is always possible to present a fresh-feeling spin on a classic idea. You don’t need to be original; you just need to put your own voice into it. 

Ultimately, what makes this a film worthy of your time is its commitment to classical noir ambiguity. These days, far too many movies feel as though they must have clear answers and explain every aspect of the story with no exception. However, art should sometimes reflect life, and there aren’t always clear answers in life. More often than not, we are only left with what is “most likely” rather than an “absolute.” And that’s if we’re lucky. 

        Aside from its commitment to classical narrative structure, the rest of the film boasts plenty of quality from all other areas. 

For one, the cast is remarkable. Denzel Washington especially delivers his usual commitment to his performance, further enhanced by his wonderful chemistry with Rami Malek. Jared Leto is fine, but you can’t help but notice that he’s putting too much, for want of a different word, “performance” in his performance. He’s alright, but he still hasn’t quite figured out how to be subtle just yet. 

The cinematography is also noteworthy. Photographed by John Schwartzman, a veteran of the movie industry, the lighting and use of stark colors make the film feel gritty yet sleek at the same time. Adding to the overall tone of uncertainty and grey matters. 

The Little Things may not be the most provocative murder mystery you will ever see, but it has just enough individuality and quality to become worthy of watching. It is a film that reminds us how, sometimes, not having an answer is more satisfying and provocative than having one. 

Highly recommended. Check it out. 

Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you all for reading.