Netflix thriller “Rebel Ridge” attempts to balance tension and action but struggles under the weight of an overly complicated narrative. Despite being helmed by talented, pedigreed writer / director Jeremy Saulnier, this is one of the more forgettable films to come along in a while.
The story follows former Marine Terry Richmond (Aaron Pierre) as he enters the small town of Shelby Springs with the simple mission of posting bail for his cousin. As a black man, he’s already met with uncalled for suspicion, but things get even worse when the local police chief (Don Johnson) seizes his life savings. This draws Terry into a dangerous conspiracy of lies and corruption which eventually escalates into a violent standoff.
The film’s strong opening promises suspense that never really materializes, and the buildup of tension quickly dissipates into just another one of those “bad cop” movies. The story pushes the limits of credibility, eventually escalating into ridiculous plot turns. While it’s satisfying to see a man standing up to a corrupt system, the film borrows heavily from earlier action classics like “First Blood” without delivering the same emotional or thematic punch.
The script is also cluttered with excessive legal jargon that becomes so complex it detracts from the central story. It’s almost as if the dialogue was written by criminal lawyers for criminal lawyers.
By the time “Rebel Ridge” reaches its climax, it becomes just another in a long line of mid-level thrillers about corrupt law enforcement. It’s watchable enough, but has few distinguishing elements that make it stand out in a crowded genre.
By: Louisa Moore
Screen Zealots 