by Shane Conto, Staff Writer
Who doesn’t love a good mystery? Also, what makes a mystery? Most people would think of a murder mystery. There has been a murder, and someone (along with the audience) must figure it out. Or there could be some other form of crime that plays out in a similar way. But what if there is no crime? There could be a mystery of motivation. That is the game that writer-director Michel Franco plays in his new film for Bleecker Street, Sundown.
So what is this mystery that Franco weaves? There is a wealthy family on vacation in Mexico when tragedy strikes. When a terrible loss in the family occurs, they must get home as soon as possible. But when Tim Roth (our lead in the film) discloses that he left his passport, the rest of his family must go on the flight without him. But Roth’s Neil does not do what you would expect. He finds a new hotel (smaller and more secluded). Then he starts going to the beach, going out to eat, and meeting a beautiful woman for him to build an affair with.
But why? That is the big mystery that Franco builds. There is only 82 minutes or so of run time, but there is a constant sense of mystery along the way. Franco builds this suspense in an effective and poignant way. The audience is left constant asking themselves what the heck is going on. For as effective as this approach is, it can also get frustrating. That is honestly the effect this film might have on some viewers. If you enjoy the slow burn of slowly peeling back layers to this situation, you will be in for a delight. If not, you might want to rage quit on this one. But Franco can intentionally drop new tidbits of information to keep the suspense going and create new questions to ponder. There are a few twists and turns that are shocking and emotionally impactful.
How does this cast play off this mysterious turn of events? Roth is so essential to how the film plays off. If he plays his hand too early, the mystery falls apart. He can keep things hidden with a perfect poker face. Roth does get to show off his emotions at times but for the most part he plays a steely and apathetic man who is struggling to connect with his family. One other standout is Charlotte Gainsbourg, who is the woman in Roth’s life. She has a few moments where she lashes out and Gainsbourg captures that frustration and anger so poignantly. Strong and well played performances go a long way to achieving Franco’s goal.
Is this a mystery worth experiencing? I can’t guarantee that Sundown won’t frustrate you at times (why doesn’t Neil just tell his family why he is doing this?!), but I can guarantee there is plenty of suspense along the way. Franco crafts this drama in such a specific way that makes this drama possible. Bleecker Street is known for their quality and Sundown is no different.
Grade: B-
You can follow Shane Conto on Twitter, Instagram, and Letterboxd