Wrecked – Review

The single location/actor flick has become an interesting genre. Buried or as some like to call it, Ryan Reynolds in A Box as well as 127 Hours are perfect examples of how, when executed right, this genre has lots to offer film fans. Wrecked, like the aforementioned films is absolutely executed right.

The Man (Adrian Brody) wakes up in a car, severely wounded, and with no memory of who he is or how he got there. The first twenty minutes of the film are gut wrenching. The entrancing visual style not only enhances Brody’s astounding performance, it sets an unsettling tone that allows the viewer to feel the pain and urgency of the unfortunate situation. It didn’t take long for me to become completely and utterly invested in this character. Even though very few words come out of his mouth. He’s alone, in a densely wooded area that would appear to be far from civilization. There are no roads close by, no people to call out to, and no one coming to his rescue.

After turning on the radio, it becomes apparent to the Man that he very well could be a bad person. This realization adds layer upon layer to the character as he struggles with who he is. Director Michael Greenspan creates an uncomfortable, yet absorbing atmosphere that pulls you in with extreme artsy close-ups that ramp up the tension. Allowing quick glimpses of the Man’s past to slowly unfold the mystery at just the right pace.

It is always refreshing when a director and an actor trust each other enough to take chances. With Wrecked Greenspan and Brody push themselves over the edge to create a visceral, enthralling slice of cinema gold. Wrecked isn’t just a movie, it’s an experience and it is positively a killer film.

Rating: