The Crimson Rivers

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Gabriel S The Crimson Rivers is one of those films that demonstrates good potential but performs in a confusing manner, unfolding a weak story despite its dense and profound context. It is one of those films where you can see that it could have been better, consideringall the necessary elements present. I would say the main problem here is probably the source material, both from the writers and the director. The unfolding of events is confusing, not because of the pace but due to the disconnect between motivation and investigation. The main character, Inspector Pierre Niemans, seems to have a rich backstory, but the narrative barely explores this context, rather merely hinting at it with unusual tropes like Niemans' fear of dogs or his obsession with solving the case due to his expertise. All this, combined with Jean Reno's acting style, culminates in a character we want to know more about, but the film shows little. In contrast, the supporting character Lieutenant Max Kerkerian, played by Vincent Cassel, is fun and charismatic, impulsive but loyal (to the badge, to the law). Scenes where he appears consistently deliver a mix of humor and drama, a tasteful combination to watch. However, the antagonist's motivation is confusing. Avoiding spoilers, what I can say is that, given the broader context behind the murders, this motivation seems too simplistic, and without appreciating the extent of the damage tied to the motivation, all we have is what seems more like a petty grievance rather than a deep and justified desire. I cannot conclude without highlighting the cinematography, which seeks seriousness and shock. The initial murders are relatively brutal, not so much due to their graphic nature but because of the events leading to the deaths. However, the camera does not spare details, as it should be in a serious homicide investigation film rated R and courageous enough to show reality. This is what The Crimson Rivers delivers: a narrative with several potential points that could culminate in a complex and intriguing plot but ultimately, despite the seriousness of the film, ends up being just another serial killer movie where the antagonist seems like nothing more than a lunatic motivated by petty feelings. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 02/26/25 Full Review Gerald H Movie ok, but the permanently loud and overexcited filmscore - even in calm scenes - ruins a lot. Rated 2.5/5 Stars •  Rated 2.5 out of 5 stars 11/14/24 Full Review Cowni F Really enjoyed the film making, atmosphere and performances. Just a bit disappointed with the ending. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 08/18/24 Full Review Gwyneth E I think it was an intriguing movie with a good concept but it skipped some of the plot points which made it a bit messy. Still had a good time watching it. Rated 3/5 Stars •  Rated 3 out of 5 stars 01/30/24 Full Review Kliff H Impeccable raw, smart and entertaining. Love the surroundings, the deep dark con of man. In the vein of french extreme. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 03/02/23 Full Review Wolfgang G Die purpurnen Flüsse ist ein Thriller von Mathieu Kassovitz, die Literaturverfilmung basiert auf dem gleichnamigen Roman von Jean-Christophe Grangé. Die Geschichte erzählt von zwei französischen Detektiven, zwei unterschiedliche Fälle, zwei unterschiedliche Handlungsstränge, bis die zwei Ermittlungspfade zusammenlaufen… . Ein atemlos inszenierter Thriller, der von zwei unterschiedlichen Ermittlern lebt. Rated 3.5/5 Stars •  Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars 01/05/23 Full Review Read all reviews

The Crimson Rivers

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