Nightcrawler
is definitely one of the more interesting films out this year, and this is in
large part thanks to Jake Gyllenhaal. Looking extra skinny here, (which is all
the more impressive when you see how bulked up he got to film the upcoming
movie, Southpaw, almost immediately after) Jake Gyllenhaal turns in one of his
most impressive performances in a role that really challenges the likability
factor of its main character.
That’s
really the thing about Gyllenhaal’s character, too, he’s not supposed to be
likeable, in fact he barely even seems human. In one scene he talks about
“people” almost as if he isn’t one of them and mentions how much he despises
them, and he treats others as a means to an end and nothing else. However, his
disregard for others and human life in general is played in a most intriguing
way. We get the sense that Louis (Gyllenhaal) is fragile, despite all of his
conniving ways and we get to see the ugliness inside come out when things
really don’t go his way.
More of a
character study than anything else, Nightcrawler has a rather simple story, but
that doesn’t make it any less engrossing. Louis begins the film clearly
searching for his passion; he is almost chameleon-like in the way he approaches
others and attempts to absorb every bit of knowledge they possess. He gleans
the internet for information and effectively teaches himself anything he wishes
to know. Before long, he discovers his passion, filming the gruesome on scene
footage for the TV news.
Although he
starts out as a real amateur, it’s fascinating watching him learn from others
and effectively step over them to the top. His character is a user and once
he’s done using people he tosses them to the side like garbage, but he does it
with a unique style.
What really
stands out in this film, though, is Gyllenhaal’s acting. He truly embodies this
creep of a character and his mere actions and expressions inspired gasps
throughout the audience at the theater I was in. If anything, I would recommend
this film for his performance alone as it’s a real treat to watch him dive into
the role.
The movie
comes to a rather crazy conclusion and when it’s all said and done, the ending
is perfect for this film, in my opinion. It may not wrap up quite like most
movies, but I appreciated the climax and the way it blended with the overall
tone of the film. If you’re looking for a fascinating story that provides a
different feel than your average movie, you can’t go wrong with Nightcrawler,
just don’t be surprised if you find yourself begrudgingly rooting for Louis,
even when he’s being an awful person. Then again, that’s the fun of
Nightcrawler.
-Ryan Maples
Rating: 9
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