A hidden crime thriller gem on Netflix is being recommended by fans for the same reason.
The movie Reptile initially landed on the streaming platform as an exclusive in 2023 but didn’t generate as much buzz as other headline-grabbing titles.
Given the vast array of content Netflix offers, it’s not shocking that Reptile enjoyed just a brief stint as one of the top films during its launch week.
As viewers exhaust the latest hot releases and scour their next binge-worthy find, this underrated flick emerges as a worthy contender for rediscovery.
The plot kicks off with the savage murder of a young property agent, thrusting a grizzled detective into a perplexing investigation that shatters illusions in both the case and his personal life.
Starring Oscar-winning Benicio del Toro alongside Alicia Silverstone, Michael Pitt, and Justin Timberlake, Reptile lurks as a sleeper hit two years post its release, reports Surrey Live.
Despite receiving lukewarm reviews from critics initially, the film has garnered a growing fanbase. A glowing testimony on Rotten Tomatoes simply reads: “Exceeded my expectations in every way.”
One fan expressed, “Very underrated and under-the-radar film. I don’t get the negative reviews. Del Toro is great and seeing Timberlake as a creep was nice. The plot twists and changes, and I appreciated how this movie kept the story moving vs a prolonged three hour slog that seems all too common these days.”
Another viewer boldly declared, “Reptile is a subtle masterpiece. It is a far cry from the 80s and 90s police dramas in which the lead detectives were tough talking, gun slinging vigilant characters (like Dirty Harry).”
Continuing their praise, they added, “Instead, the script gives us a realistic depiction of a middle-age police detective whose vulnerability has been amplified due to having a corrupt cop for a partner in the past. The entire cast gives strong performances, and the story keeps the audience intrigued to the very end.”
Even those with criticisms ultimately recommend the movie, particularly highlighting del Toro’s performance: “Benicio del Toro continues to remind us why he’s one cool customer and among our greatest actors.”
Echoing the sentiment, another viewer applauded, “(Benicio’s character) is my favourite screen cop in a long, long time.”
Meanwhile, despite recognizing some flaws, an additional comment read, “Reptile has several holes in the plot, but such a pleasure watching Benicio del Toro.”
Summing up the captivating nature of the film, a spectator added, “(The film is) endlessly fascinating. Benicio Del Toro gives one hell of a performance here.”
Reptile is streaming on Netflix.