What do you do when your community is terrorized by a serial killer who seems to elude capture? When the killer remains at large, every person in the area becomes a potential suspect. The situation becomes even more alarming when the police themselves come under suspicion. This unsettling reality creates an atmosphere of distrust and fear, as residents grapple with the terrifying possibility that the very people sworn to protect them might also be involved in the crimes. In such a scenario, the lines between ally and adversary blur, making it increasingly difficult to determine who can be trusted. And this is exactly what Crescent City revolves on.
Brian Sutter, a churchgoing family man, is troubled by haunting memories from a failed drug bust. His partner, Luke Carson, is a reckless cop known for his rough interrogation methods, which earns him the nickname “Dirty Harry” from their captain Howell, played by Alec Baldwin, who is coasting through the role.
Frustrated with their slow progress in catching a serial killer, the captain adds a new team member: Jaclyn Waters, an attractive Australian cop recently transferred from Tulsa, portrayed by Nicky Whelan. Carson distrusts her immediately, partly because she’s not impressed by his flirtations. Sutter, on the other hand, is unusually receptive to Waters, though his reasons are personal rather than professional. The narrative weaves together sexual scandals linked to Sutter’s church, an extramarital affair with characters who may be suspects and a disturbed young man who becomes a secretive avenger targeting unfaithful partners and sinners. But the question remains the same- who is the killer? In the need of the hour who can trust?
The plot does have its moments of intriguing scenes, which provide some levity amid the tension. However, as the story progresses, such moments can only do so much to balance the chaos that ensues. The film's attempt to blend comedy with a complex investigation ultimately results in a convoluted narrative that makes it increasingly difficult to follow the search for the killer. The myriad twists and turns, combined with a growing sense of disorder, can leave viewers feeling lost and struggling to piece together the clues as the investigation spirals into disarray.
Also the plot culminates in two highly contrived twists that feel more far-fetched than impactful. Additionally, the ending seems to have been hastily revised, as if the filmmakers added a final segment in response to feedback from preview audiences who were unhappy with the apparent fate of a major character. This last-minute change not only feels awkwardly tacked on but also undermines the story's overall coherence, leaving the resolution feeling unsatisfying and disjointed. At one you may feel uncomfortable when you see the mannequins.
The actors deliver commendable performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles despite the film's over-complicated plot. Their skills shine through, adding a layer of credibility and emotion to the story. However, the convoluted narrative undermines their efforts, as the intricate and confusing plot twists overshadow their strong acting. The result is a disconnect between the actors’ impressive performances and the story’s ability to engage effectively and satisfy the audience.
Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times