73 Minutes

73 MINUTES is the amount of time available to an ambulance chasing lawyer to get a case file to a mysterious caller who threatens to kill her daughter and her mother if she does not do so.

This film has a good plot and builds a fair amount of suspense, so that the fact that most of the movie plays inside her car, as she talks to various people over the phone or videophone, does not make it boring. However, there are similar movies which manage to ratchet the tension up even higher (see list below).

I really like how it uses technology which would not have been possible until fairly recently as essential plot elements. I also liked the fact that movie did not end in a cliched manner.

This is good entertainment for slightly over 80 minutes and recommended for anyone who enjoys these types of movies. Other movies with similar plot elements which I found more suspenseful/thrilling:

PHONE BOOTH (2002) RETRIBUTION (2015) (it was remade as RETRIBUTION (2023)) THE GUILTY (2018) (it was remade as THE GUILTY (2021)) SIXTY MINUTES (2024) BURIED (2010).

73 Minutes" is a mind-blowing cinematic experience that grabs you by the guts and never lets go. Helmed by Lou Simon and featuring a stellar cast, this film takes you on an electrifying journey filled with suspense, mystery, and profound emotions.

The story kicks off with a lawyer tangled up in an illicit affair. But when a menacing phone call threatens her daughter's life, the game changes drastically. With a mere seventy-three minutes on the clock, she must decipher the caller's demands and utilize a crucial file to save her family's existence.

The performances are outstanding, with the lead actress delivering a powerhouse portrayal that delves deep into the human psyche. The supporting cast adds depth and nuance to the narrative, elevating the film's impact.

Beneath the surface, "73 Minutes" explores the profound themes of familial love and sacrifice. It prompts introspection, making you question the lengths you'd go to protect your loved ones.

Lou Simon is a filmmaker who creates so much in a contained space. When watching this film, I felt the lead was familiar then I realized she was in "3."

The film takes place mostly in a car at night which in itself is a challenge. What helps is the multiple uses of technology to break away from the main location. The story is well paced and takes the audience through a journey at the edge of your seat. The musical score enhances the feeling as well.

The clever editing and various angles keep things interesting as the actors deliver captivating performances. It's a film that keeps you guessing and keeps your attention. Definitely give it a watch.

This one is tough. It is entertaining and suspenseful and certainly held my attention but there's a real hole in the plot as well. I won't go into great detail as I absolutely do not do spoilers under any circumstance. It has a very small cast as it is set nearly entirely in a car and for the most part the performances are good - a little overacting, but hey it's a low budget thriller. It is directed well, ratcheting up the tension slowly and doing the best possible to make up for the quite large hole in the plot. All in all, this is a decent watch. It's free on Tubi, so you're out absolutely nothing to judge for yourself.