This week’s New On Netflix pick of the week is one for fans of a good old edge-of-your-seat thriller. Funded by Kick Starter and directed by David Boyle, Man From Reno takes a stylistic approach to the neo-noir genre, making the most of both cultural and language differences.
A stranger in the increasingly strange city of San Francisco, Japanese crime novelist Aki (Ayako Fujitani – Tokyo!) is unsure of precisely what role she has to play in a real-life murder mystery involving ambiguous MacGuffins and amorphous identities. Unfolding in lonely places such as bookshops and hotel bars, Dave Boyle’s (Surrogate Valentine, White On Rice, Big Dreams Little Tokyo) moody thriller uncovers exhilarating new takes on genre conventions. Consequently, it’s an alluring l’homme fatal who supplies Aki with the breadcrumb trail of clues that entices her into a labyrinthine plot of sinister dealings. In turn, the aging sheriff (veteran character actor Pepe Serna – Scarface, The Black Dahlia, The Jerk, fantastic in a rare leading role), who should rightfully be riding to her rescue, proves to be equally out of his depth. The game is afoot, the chase is exhilarating and the stakes are perilously high in this inspired net-noir.
This isn’t the kind of film with a clear-cut storyline and resolution, so be warned, you might be left feeling deflated when it comes to the end. However, if you’re a fan of more realistic stories, with open-ended discussion inducing finales, then this will suit you just fine.
BONUS CONTENT
Perfect for a night in with friends, Jackass Presents: Bad Grandpa has hit UK Netflix for all your late-night film watching needs. Johnny Knoxville’s beloved (sort of) grandpa character is back with a feature length film, alongside his adorable (ish) ‘grandson’ in tow. Filled with the usual cringe-inducing antics, just don’t try this at home.
Or, if you’re like me and love a good documentary, the critically acclaimed A Sinner in Mecca is another great choice. Filmed on an iPhone, this film follows Parvez Sharma, an openly gay Muslim on his journey to Mecca in Saudi Arabia as part of the world’s largest pilgrimage: the Hajj.
