An Idris Elba thriller which divided critics and audiences is currently sitting at number 10 on Netflix’s trending films chart.
Whilst Elba remains one of Britain’s most acclaimed actors, not all of his projects have garnered universal praise. The 2014 crime drama No Good Deed is one such example.
Penned by Aimée Lagos and helmed by director Sam Miller, the film follows an unsuspecting woman who allows a handsome stranger into her home to use the phone.
However, she quickly discovers the truth behind the saying “no good deed goes unpunished” when the visitor takes over her home and terrorises her family, according to the synopsis.
Elba portrays Colin, a murderer who has recently broken out of prison, whilst Oscar nominee Taraji P. Henson plays Terri, the vulnerable protagonist, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The White Lotus star Leslie Bibb is also on the cast, alongside The Cleaning Lady actress Kate del Castillo and Henry Simmons from Agents of S. H. I. E. L. D.
Despite boasting a star-studded ensemble, No Good Deed was panned upon its debut. Rotten Tomatoes reviewers awarded the thriller a sour 13 per cent score, with their consensus proving particularly brutal.
It reads: “Dull, derivative, and generally uninspired, No Good Deed wastes its stars’ talents – and the audience’s time.”
Certain viewers shared this sentiment, with one commenting: “Oh, Mr Elba what where you thinking? It is a predictable film from the beginning to the end and a very stale story.”
Another viewer added: “…not even Idris Elba (I’m a big fan) or Taraji P. Henson’s acting skills could elevate this lacklustre thriller.”
However, some fans were full of praise for the film. One enthused: “No idea why this has gotten bad reviews. Absolutely amazing! My favourite actors from the 90s in incredible roles!”
“The entire cast was SO perfect and the story had such emotion, twists and turns, and humour at the same time! Highly recommend!”
While another raved: “I loved the movie! I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. Great acting and real suspenseful.”
No Good Deed is streaming now on Netflix