‘GTMAX’ (2024) Netflix Movie Review - A Heist Thriller With A Tech-Driven Edge

“GTMax,” Netflix’s 2024 cyber-thriller directed by Martin Dumont, dives deep into the realms of technology and morality. It offers a contemporary take on the heist genre, mixing high-stakes action with moments of quiet introspection. At its core is Max, a tech prodigy-turned-hacker seeking retribution against the tech conglomerate GT, whose unethical practices have caused widespread harm.

Alexandre Fournier delivers a compelling performance as Max, channeling equal parts determination and vulnerability. His character is driven not just by a desire to expose the corporation’s greed but also by unresolved personal betrayals, adding layers to his morally ambiguous quest. Mélanie Laurent stars as Lena, a whistleblower and former GT insider. While her role is essential to the plot, her character doesn’t get as much depth as Max, leaving her arc somewhat underwhelming.

The film stands out in its visual execution. Cinematographer Céline Jorrion crafts an atmosphere that feels simultaneously slick and unsettling. From the sterile glow of GT’s corporate offices to the chaotic, dimly lit spaces where Max operates, every frame mirrors the tension between control and rebellion. The film’s digital sequences, representing Max’s hacking operations, are intricately designed, immersing viewers in the labyrinthine world of virtual heists without overloading the senses.

Tonally, “GTMax” oscillates between fast-paced action and quieter, reflective moments. The pacing is deliberate, allowing audiences to grasp Max’s motivations while maintaining a steady build-up to the climactic heist. The electronic score underpins this rhythm, enhancing both the adrenaline-fueled sequences and the character-driven drama.

The script, however, falters in its ambition. The film’s critique of corporate greed and data exploitation, while relevant, often feels overly didactic. At times, characters deliver monologues that prioritize social commentary over narrative flow, disrupting the story’s momentum. Additionally, the movie leans heavily on tech jargon, which, while adding authenticity, risks alienating viewers who aren’t tech-savvy.

Despite these flaws, “GTMax” succeeds in holding the audience’s attention. The plot twists are effective without feeling contrived, and the film’s moral gray zones keep viewers questioning the ethics of Max’s actions. Dumont resists the urge to paint his protagonist as a pure hero, instead presenting him as a flawed individual whose methods blur the line between justice and vengeance.

The film’s conclusion is particularly striking. Without spoiling too much, it avoids a tidy resolution, opting instead for an ambiguous ending that lingers in the viewer’s mind. It’s a choice that aligns with the film’s overall tone, emphasizing the complexity of its themes over a traditional sense of closure.

“GTMax” isn’t a flawless film, but it’s a memorable one. Its exploration of the intersection between technology, power, and morality feels timely, even if the execution stumbles in places. Fans of cerebral heists and morally complex characters will find much to enjoy, while others might find themselves drawn in by its sleek aesthetic and high-stakes drama. In a crowded field of heist movies, “GTMax” carves out its own niche, reminding us that sometimes, the most compelling battles are fought in the digital shadows.

Final Score- [6/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
Follow @AnjaliS54769166 on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times