Sleeping Dogs starring Russell Crowe

Cast: Russell Crowe, Karen Gillan, Marton Csókás, Tommy Flanagan, Harry Greenwood, Thomas M. Wright

Director:Adam Cooper

Genre: Action Crime/Thriller

Rating: MA15+

Running Time: 111 Minutes

Some lies never die

In this gripping crime thriller, Russell Crowe stars as Roy Freeman, an ex-homicide detective with a fractured memory, forced to revisit a case he can't remember.

As a man's life hangs in the balance on death row, Freeman must piece together the brutal evidence from a decade-old murder investigation, uncovering a sinister web of buried secrets and betrayals linking to his past.

With only instincts to trust, he faces a chilling truth – sometimes it's best to let sleeping dogs lie.

Sleeping Dogs

In Cinemas 1st August

https://rialtodistribution.com/film/sleeping-dogs/

Review: 

In "Sleeping Dogs," Russell Crowe delivers a riveting performance in this crime thriller that delves into the murky depths of memory, justice, and redemption. Crowe stars as Roy Freeman, an ex-homicide detective whose fractured memory complicates his quest to revisit a haunting case from his past.

The plot kicks off with Freeman being drawn back into a decade-old murder investigation, with a man's life hanging in the balance on death row. This setup creates an immediate sense of urgency and tension, as Freeman's once-clear recollections have become muddled by time and trauma. The film effectively mirrors Freeman's disjointed recollections, heightening the suspense as audiences piece together the story alongside him.

Crowe's portrayal of Freeman is compelling and layered. The character's internal conflict and struggle with his own unreliable memories add emotional depth to the film, making Freeman's journey both a personal and professional odyssey. Russell Crowe's performance anchors the film, making Freeman's quest for truth all the more engaging.

Director Emily Parker crafts a moody and atmospheric thriller that benefits from strong cinematography and a brooding score. The film's visual style complements Freeman's fractured state of mind, with dark, shadowy scenes enhancing the sense of unease and tension. Parker's direction keeps the pacing tight, ensuring that the suspense builds steadily throughout.

The supporting cast adds significant weight to the narrative, with standout performances from a talented ensemble that includes veteran actors and rising stars. Their interactions with Crowe's Freeman are fraught with tension and intrigue, each character bringing additional layers to the central mystery.

The screenplay, while occasionally leaning on familiar crime thriller tropes, keeps the audience invested with its intricate plot and moral dilemmas. The revelation of buried secrets and betrayals is handled with skill, leading to a climactic and thought-provoking conclusion. The film's exploration of whether some truths are better left uncovered is a central theme, raising questions about the nature of justice and the impact of rehashing old wounds.

"Sleeping Dogs" excels as a gripping crime thriller, blending Crowe's powerful performance with a well-crafted story that challenges perceptions of truth and justice. It's a tense and engaging watch that will resonate with fans of psychological thrillers and complex crime dramas. With its sharp direction, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes, "Sleeping Dogs" is a testament to Crowe's enduring talent.