I found this film to be a gripping thriller that defied the expectations set by its trailer. While not excessively gory, it effectively maintained tension throughout, offering a storyline that kept me engaged without any dull moments. Ed Westwick's portrayal of a troubled cop on a mission to rescue kidnapped individuals from a dark web game show was noteworthy, bringing depth to the character. Opposing him was a villain reminiscent of the Joker, played by newcomer Andrew Stephen, who delivered a standout performance that evolved from menacing to oddly compelling.
The heart of the film revolves around the captives, a group of likable characters, particularly the main female victim Katya, who serves as the audience's window into the dark games. While the film may not be groundbreaking in its themes, it presents them in a well-structured manner that sustains interest from start to finish. The tension builds effectively, with gruesome moments cleverly implied rather than explicitly shown. The director skillfully elicits strong performances from the cast, and the refined script contributes to the overall coherence of the film.
While the film excels in many aspects, it does show signs of budget limitations in certain areas. While the setting suits the narrative, larger set pieces could have enhanced the viewing experience. Overall, it offers a tightly woven storyline that keeps viewers captivated throughout.
