Wednesday, July 3, 2019

Movie review: Murder Mystery

 
 When New York cop Nick and his wife, Audrey, head out on a long overdue European vacation their only hope is to ignite a spark in their relationship. Instead they wind up framed for the death of a famous billionaire and on the run for their lives.

Adam Sandler (Nick), Jennifer Aniston (Audrey), Luke Evans (Cavendish), Terence Stamp (Malcolm), Gemma Arterton (Grace), David Walliams (Tobey), Dany Boon (de la Croix), John Kani (Col. Ulenga), Shioli Kutsuna (Suzi).

Murder Mystery begins with some background for Nick and Audrey before they set out on vacation and into the main plot. As the story slowly unrolls things get a bit more interesting with an injection of racy humor, a bit of action, and some hints of sexuality. And that is where the film stalls as the familiar plot spins for the next hour pending character development that never shows up. The film finally finishes with a disappointing action scene and an ending we saw coming from a mile away.

Acting was sadly disappointing. Sandler and Aniston literally felt like they were both dumbing-down their efforts and Aniston in particular is capable of much more. Evans was well cast and in-type with a role he managed nicely. Stamp, Arterton, Boon, and the remainder of the supporting cast were okay.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were good with nice variety and use of natural scenery. Action scenes were mild but enjoyable. Dialogue was mediocre with humor that failed to land, intimate scenes that were not intimate, and even intense scenes that lacked energy. Sound and soundtrack are decent.

Overall Murder Mystery ends up an average comedy at best. The plot, characters, and direction all feel thin and lacking in depth. While the film may develop enough energy for young viewers, most adults will probably lose interest in this one.

With some mild sexuality, violence, and foul language, this should be fine for teens and above.

Released: 2019
Reviewed: 7.2.19
Star rating: 2 out of 5
Genre: Comedy, Mystery, Crime, Drama, Action

copyright ©2019 Dave Riedel

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