Drop
Drop is playing in theaters at the time of writing. Rated PG-13. Common Sense says 14+.
A widowed mother’s (Meghann Fahy) first date in years takes a sinister turn when a series of drop messages interrupts dinner. She sees a man holding her son and sister at gunpoint. Will Violet follow the unknown sender’s orders and kill her date (Brandon Sklenar) or will she find a way to save both him and her family?
STORY: B-
The chef’s special tonight is a plate full of thrills, served with a slew of red herrings.
This is a film where a single parent working as a therapist lives in a house with a kitchen the size of Delaware that’s just “a few minutes from downtown” Chicago. This story’s not here to impress us with sophisticated twists or precise, plausible details.
Rather, the film invites us to surf along on its fun wave of whodunit. At times, it seems ready to explore big issues such as abuse and trauma, but those elements exist merely to amp up the story’s ridiculous (but entertaining) premise.
PEOPLE: B-
Terrible date. Terrific cast.
If Glen Powell had been cast as Henry, it wouldn’t have worked. Powell is a charisma machine with a smile brighter than the Northern Lights. That guy would have bounced from this date way before the closing credits roll. Henry needs to be a handsome, sweet guy who’s also capable of giving off punching bag vibes. Skelnar captures all those aspects of Henry. He’s really great.
Violet is trapped in a no-win, deadly trap. The role requires Fahy to bounce back and forth between helpless resignation and steely resolve. It’s not an easy ask, but she’s more than up to the task.
Jeffery Self (waiter) and Gabrielle Ryan (bartender) shine brightest in the film’s constellation of memorable supporting roles.
FILM NERD STUFF: B+
Cinematographer Marc Spicer completely understood the assignment.
The cinematography isn’t breathtaking. It’s not subtle. It’s more like a Wisconsin highway on a rainy day: slick and cheesy.
Slick and cheesy is an apt description for the film’s tone as a whole, making the visuals a perfect fit for this film. A highlight is the overhead shot of Violet in the bathroom that transforms into something resembling the Sunken Place.
ONE BIG LESSON: C-
Don’t let the bad guys drag you down.
There’s a line in the film used to describe how abusers get away with their evil deeds for as long as they do: they make you believe that you’re the crazy one, instead of them.
It’s similar to a theme I just wrote about last week in what could not be a more different film: Bob Trevino Likes It.
I don’t think I’m recommending these two films as a double feature … but I don’t think I’m not recommending them as a double feature either. Actually, a roll of the dice may prove rewarding and surprisingly insightful. I dare you.
FINAL COMMENTS:
Every element of this movie aggressively hurls ridiculous thrills at your face. Every department is on the same page, making Drop an entertaining, noteworthy modern manifestation of the classic B-movie thriller.
The movie is neither destined nor designed for success on Oscar night. But some night when you catch it as you’re up late channel surfing, you can bet you’ll be hooked enough to stick around to the end. No matter what time you need to get up the next morning.