“Detained” is a decent indie thriller that showcases Felipe Mucci’s directorial talent in a compact, intense setting. The film opens with Rebecca, played by Abbie Cornish, waking up in a police interrogation room with no memory of the night before. From the get-go, something feels off about this police station, and as the plot unfolds, it becomes clear that this seemingly ordinary place harbors dark secrets.
Rebecca is told she’s the main suspect in a hit-and-run incident, but she can’t recall anything about the night in question. This setup immediately draws the audience’s attention, with Rebecca‘s amnesia and the suspicious environment creating a palpable sense of unease. As she struggles to piece things together, it’s clear that something more sinister is at play.
Laz Alonso plays Detective Avery, the lead detective at the station who turns out to be one of the antagonists in the film. His performance adds significant weight to the narrative. It is soon revealed that Avery, along with everyone else in the station, is part of an elaborate ruse designed to swindle Rebecca out of some money they believe isn’t rightfully hers. This twist is the film’s turning point, transforming what initially appears to be a straightforward crime drama into a high-stakes con game.
Abbie Cornish delivers a compelling performance as Rebecca, skillfully portraying her character’s fear, confusion, and eventual determination. Cornish captures the nuances of Rebecca’s emotional journey, making her a relatable and sympathetic protagonist. Laz Alonso’s portrayal of Detective Avery is equally commendable, bringing a blend of authority and menace to the role. The supporting cast also deserves recognition for convincingly maintaining the façade that keeps both Rebecca and the audience guessing.
The writing, credited to Felipe Mucci and Jeremy Palmer, is a standout element of “Detained.” The screenplay expertly weaves the characters’ stories together, leading to an unexpected and satisfying plot twist. Despite the film being set primarily within the confines of this shady police station, the narrative never feels restricted. The clever use of the location, combined with the dynamic interactions between characters, keeps the story engaging and the tension high.
While the writing is strong, “Detained” is not without its flaws. There are a few plot holes that might leave viewers scratching their heads, but they are minor enough not to detract significantly from the overall experience. Some scenes also feel overdramatized, perhaps an attempt to heighten the narrative’s intensity, but these moments can sometimes feel excessive.
The art direction in “Detained” is commendable. Although we see little of the exterior of the shady police station, the interior sets are convincing enough to sustain the illusion. The detailed set design, combined with the characters’ deceptive explanations, helps sell the ruse both to Rebecca and the audience. The shabby, under-renovation environment adds to the film’s atmosphere, enhancing the sense of entrapment and danger.
“Detained” excels as a high-tension thriller, moving at a brisk pace that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The gradual reveal of character motivations and the intricate plotting ensure that the audience is constantly engaged, piecing together the mystery alongside Rebecca. When the film reaches its climax, the final reveal is both shocking and satisfying, delivering a powerful conclusion to the story.
The film tackles interesting themes such as revenge, trust, betrayal, and greed. These themes are intricately woven into the screenplay, allowing the audience to see different facets of the characters as the narrative progresses. The moral ambiguities and shifting loyalties add depth to the story, making “Detained” more than just a conventional thriller.
In the end, “Detained” is a solid indie thriller that showcases Felipe Mucci’s directorial skills and features strong performances from its cast. Despite some minor flaws, the film succeeds in delivering a gripping, suspenseful narrative that keeps viewers engaged until the very end.
With its clever writing, strong performances, and atmospheric setting, “Detained” earns a respectable 7/10. It’s a film that will leave audiences thinking long after the credits roll, a testament to its effective storytelling and execution.
