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Sleeping Dogs (2024)

by | Mar 26, 2024 | 2020s, Featured Films, Film Reviews, Mystery, Thriller | 0 comments

Sleeping Dogs: A Haunting Puzzle Missing a Piece

“Sleeping Dogs,” the directorial debut of Adam Cooper (writer of Exodus: Gods and Kings), has been stirring the pot online. The film stars Russell Crowe as Roy Freeman, a retired cop grappling with dementia as he tries to piece together a forgotten case. Intrigued by the premise and Crowe’s always-reliable performance, I settled in for what I hoped would be a suspenseful and emotional ride. Let’s delve into whether “Sleeping Dogs” delivers on its promise, exploring the story, filming choices, cast, box office performance, and ultimately, my final verdict.

A Story of Memory and Mystery Unravelling:

The core of “Sleeping Dogs” revolves around Roy’s desperate attempt to remember a brutal murder from his past. Clues are scattered throughout the film like breadcrumbs, both literal (think sticky notes plastered around his apartment) and figurative (fragmented flashbacks plague Roy’s waking moments). While the mystery itself is moderately engaging, the true emotional weight lies in Roy’s battle with his own mind. There are moments of genuine heartbreak as Roy confronts the limitations of his memory, and Crowe portrays this vulnerability with raw honesty. However, some online reviews have criticised the film’s pacing, finding the back-and-forth between past and present to be disorienting. While I can see their point, I found the non-linear structure to be a fitting reflection of Roy’s fractured memories. Imagine trying to solve a puzzle with half the pieces missing and constantly shifting – that’s the experience “Sleeping Dogs” evokes.

Filming in the Fog of Memory:

“Sleeping Dogs” was filmed on location in Vancouver, Canada. The city’s characteristically gloomy weather is used to great effect, creating a sense of isolation and despair that mirrors Roy’s internal struggle. Cinematographer Ben Nott utilises a muted colour palette, further emphasising the film’s sombre tone. There are a few well-choreographed action sequences from Roy’s past, but overall, the focus is on creating a slow-burn atmosphere of unease. Interestingly, some reviews mentioned a missed opportunity to explore the beauty of Vancouver. However, I believe the bleak aesthetic perfectly aligns with the film’s narrative. Imagine a detective story where the sun never shines – that’s the Vancouver of “Sleeping Dogs,” a city perpetually shrouded in the fog of Roy’s fading memories.

A Cast Anchored by Crowe, But Not Alone:

Russell Crowe delivers a tour-de-force performance as Roy Freeman. He effortlessly conveys the confusion and frustration of a man losing his grip on reality. Crowe’s physical transformation is also noteworthy, as he portrays the physical toll that dementia takes on Roy’s body. The supporting cast, while not as flashy, provides a solid foundation for Crowe’s performance. Juliette Lewis, as Roy’s concerned neighbour, adds a layer of warmth and empathy to the film. Barry Levinson plays a shady figure from Roy’s past, a constant reminder of the darkness that Roy might be trying to forget. While some reviewers felt that the supporting characters were underdeveloped, existing solely to serve Roy’s narrative, I believe they offer glimpses into Roy’s past life and the choices that led him down this path. Imagine the detective’s partner, the concerned wife – these supporting characters, though not as fleshed out, paint a more complete picture of who Roy once was.

Box Office Woof or Wag?: A Tale of Niche Audiences

“Sleeping Dogs” opened to a somewhat underwhelming box office performance. While the film wasn’t a complete flop, it didn’t quite capture the mainstream audience. This could be attributed to the film’s dark and slow-burning nature, which might not appeal to everyone craving a popcorn thriller. However, positive word-of-mouth from fans of character-driven dramas could see “Sleeping Dogs” find a niche audience on streaming platforms.

Final Verdict: A Film That Lingers

“Sleeping Dogs” is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It’s a haunting exploration of memory loss, the search for redemption, and the fight to hold onto who you are. While the pacing might not be for everyone, and the supporting characters could have been fleshed out further, Russell Crowe’s performance is undeniably powerful. If you’re looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that delves into the complexities of the human mind, “Sleeping Dogs” is worth a watch. However, if you crave a fast-paced action thriller with a clear-cut good versus evil narrative, you might want to look elsewhere. “Sleeping Dogs” is a puzzle box of a film, one that requires patience and a willingness to confront the uncomfortable realities of ageing and loss. It’s a film that lingers, a haunting melody that stays with you long after the music stops. Ultimately, “Sleeping Dogs” is a film that will spark discussion. It may not be a crowd-pleaser, but for those seeking a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant experience, it’s a journey worth taking.

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