Russell Crowe brings his trademark intensity to Sleeping Dogs, a compelling thriller that delves into the intricate world of memory and mystery. The film, directed by Adam Cooper and based on the novel The Book of Mirrors, provides a new take on the detective genre, while it occasionally stumbles in execution.
Sleeping Dogs – Synopsis
In Sleeping Dogs, Russell Crowe’s retired detective Roy Freeman is dealing with dementia when he is reintroduced to a decade-old murder investigation. As Freeman revisits the details of the crime that resulted in an innocent man’s guilt, he reveals long-buried secrets and confronts the shadows of his past. The story unfolds through a series of flashbacks and present-day investigations, bringing Freeman closer to the truth while battling his failing memory.
Movie Review
Russell Crowe’s performance is the film’s strongest asset, offering a deeply engaging portrayal of a man torn between past trauma and present confusion. His portrayal of Freeman’s dementia lends authenticity and emotional depth to the film that would otherwise be lacking. The story itself, while promising, suffers from uneven pacing and confusing structuring. The Alzheimer’s perspective, which drives the plot, is slightly misrepresented, resulting in a gap that may frustrate some viewers. The film’s use of multiple flashbacks and dramatic twists often muddles the tale, making it difficult to maintain suspense. Despite these problems, Sleeping Dogs is nonetheless watchable, thanks mostly to Crowe’s engaging performance.
Watch the trailer for Sleeping Dogs
Credit:
Genre: Crime Thriller
Cast: Russell Crowe, Karen Gillan, Márton Csókás, Thomas M. Wright, Harry Greenwood, Tommy Flanagan
Director: Adam Cooper
Written by Adam Cooper and Bill Collage
Based on: The Book of Mirrors; by E.O. Chirovici
Release: March 22, 2024
Where to stream/watch “Sleeping Dogs”?
Sleeping Dogs is available for streaming on major platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV+. Check your local listings for availability.
Where to watch Sleeping Dogs (2024)
