When it comes to films utilizing the
found-footage format, Hollywood has been experimenting in recent years to
expand the technique beyond the horror genre, and with successes like Chronicle and Project X, there has been definitive proof that audiences are
responding to this normally unconventional filmmaking method. Given this success in the action and comedy
genres, one can undeniably see the logic behind Open Road Films taking the
initiative to apply the method to a drama, and by all early appearances, End of Watch was poised to charm both
critics and audiences. Police dramas are
certainly nothing new, and they regularly enjoy the benefit of high moviegoer
interest, but what made this September release so intriguing had to do with the
talent both in front of and behind the camera.
Jake Gyllenhaal has had many notable lead roles, and Michael Peña has
been skyrocketing in popularity lately, but what grabbed my attention the most
was the involvement of director David Ayer, who acted as writer and producer
for one of the best police films ever made, Training
Day. Needless to say, my
expectations for End of Watch were
through the roof, and I was just praying that I would not be disappointed.
Gripping, engaging, surprisingly funny, and offering a deep character study, End of Watch is nothing short of a brilliant film propelled by strong writing and powerhouse performances. Gyllenhall and Peña showcase remarkable chemistry as co-stars, drawing audiences into the brotherhood of the police force and truly making you believe that they are partners who would gladly give up their lives for one another. Whether the narrative is focused on the back-and-forth banter between the two officers as they insult each other or detailing the romances that they share with their respective families, there is a genuine humanity to End of Watch that will have you fully invested in the welfare of the characters. And make no mistake, there is plenty of action within the film, with the found-footage format making the fire-fights and chase sequences far more pulse-pounding than anything that has been seen in theaters for years. Bottom line, if you are in any way a fan of the police drama genre or just looking for a fully entertaining film that tells a unique story, you need to see End of Watch.
Overall Recommendation: Very High
Gripping, engaging, surprisingly funny, and offering a deep character study, End of Watch is nothing short of a brilliant film propelled by strong writing and powerhouse performances. Gyllenhall and Peña showcase remarkable chemistry as co-stars, drawing audiences into the brotherhood of the police force and truly making you believe that they are partners who would gladly give up their lives for one another. Whether the narrative is focused on the back-and-forth banter between the two officers as they insult each other or detailing the romances that they share with their respective families, there is a genuine humanity to End of Watch that will have you fully invested in the welfare of the characters. And make no mistake, there is plenty of action within the film, with the found-footage format making the fire-fights and chase sequences far more pulse-pounding than anything that has been seen in theaters for years. Bottom line, if you are in any way a fan of the police drama genre or just looking for a fully entertaining film that tells a unique story, you need to see End of Watch.
Overall Recommendation: Very High
