For Rent on Apple TV, Google Play, Amazon, and YouTube
There is an unofficial sub-genre of films I often refer to as "Tax Returns." Movies of inexcusable low quality with a high-profile talent who is likely accepting a quick paycheck to afford their taxes for the year. These movies are more often than not plagued by terrible writing, bonehead direction, and lackluster performances from the supporting cast. Some examples include Money Plane featuring Kelsey Grammer and Bloodrayne with Sir Ben Kingsley.
Today's subject, The Ritual Killer, is no exception. A terrible by-the-numbers cat & mouse style murder mystery attempting to skate by with the presence of the typically reliable Morgan Freeman. And while he does his usual powerhouse excellence despite the incompetent material, it's still not enough to save what may very well be, at this moment, the worst film of 2023.
The story follows Mississippi-based detective Lucas Boyd (Cole Houser) on the hunt for a vicious killer with a penchant for the elaborate and ceremonial. His investigation leads him to seek the guidance of Dr. Mackles (Morgan Freeman), a professor in African cultural studies. Dr. Mackles surmises that the killer is likely performing ancient black magic commissioned by wealthy clients seeking seemingly supernatural means of acquiring their deepest desires. With a better understanding of the killer's nature, they must now use their knowledge to find the killer before he strikes again.
Setting aside the potential racism of the plot, nothing about this film is competent, clever, or even creative. It's a colossal collection of clichés teamed with plot holes, nonsensical scenes, and middle-school-grade performances.
Five writers apparently penned the script, which is already a terrible sign. Too many writers often cause uneven tones, jarring character beats, and an extreme lack of narrative cohesion, all of which is present and accounted for in this movie!
I could go on for another few paragraphs about this film's terribleness, but I have already given this film too much of my time. Nothing is redeeming or unintentionally entertaining about this trainwreck. Save your time and money.
Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you all for reading.
No comments:
Post a Comment