Exposed (2016) Movie Review: Unveiling Layers of Mystery and Drama
Exposed is a 2016 mystery drama film directed by Declan Dale, a pseudonym for Gee Malik Linton. The film stars Ana de Armas, Keanu Reeves, and Mira Sorvino in a story that intertwines themes of faith, guilt, and redemption. Initially intended as a more complex, surreal narrative, the film underwent significant changes during post-production, resulting in a final product that left many viewers and critics puzzled. Despite its flaws, Exposed offers a unique viewing experience, primarily due to its strong performances and intriguing premise.
Plot Summary
The movie follows Isabel de La Cruz (Ana de Armas), a young Latina woman who experiences a series of strange, supernatural events after witnessing what appears to be a miracle in the subway. Concurrently, the film tracks Detective Scott Galban (Keanu Reeves), who is investigating the murder of his partner, Detective Joey Cullen (Danny Hoch).
As Galban delves deeper into the investigation, he discovers a web of corruption and secrets within the police department. Isabel’s life becomes increasingly intertwined with Galban’s investigation, revealing connections between her visions and the murder case. Throughout the film, themes of faith, trauma, and the search for truth are explored, leading to a climactic and somewhat ambiguous resolution.
Performances and Characters
Ana de Armas delivers a compelling performance as Isabel de La Cruz, portraying her character’s vulnerability, strength, and inner turmoil with remarkable depth. Her portrayal adds a layer of emotional complexity to the film, making Isabel’s journey both captivating and poignant.
Keanu Reeves, as Detective Scott Galban, brings a subdued intensity to his role. While his performance is solid, the character’s development is hindered by the film’s disjointed narrative. Despite this, Reeves manages to convey the weariness and determination of a man seeking justice amidst a sea of corruption.
Mira Sorvino appears as Janine Cullen, the widow of the murdered detective. Though her screen time is limited, Sorvino’s portrayal adds emotional weight to the story, highlighting the personal toll of the investigation on those left behind.
Direction and Narrative
Exposed is a film that grapples with its own identity. Originally conceived as a surreal exploration of violence and its effects on the human psyche, the movie was re-edited to focus more on the procedural aspects of the murder investigation. This shift results in a narrative that feels uneven and, at times, confusing.
The film’s direction by Declan Dale (Gee Malik Linton) hints at a more ambitious and thought-provoking story, with elements of magical realism and psychological drama. However, the re-edited version leans heavily on conventional crime thriller tropes, diluting the impact of its more original ideas.
Themes and Symbolism
One of the film’s strengths lies in its exploration of themes such as faith, redemption, and the search for truth. Isabel’s supernatural experiences and her struggle with trauma serve as a metaphor for the complexities of faith and belief. The movie also delves into the moral ambiguities of justice and the consequences of corruption, though these themes are not always fully realized due to the fragmented narrative.
Visuals and Production
Exposed features some visually striking moments, particularly in scenes depicting Isabel’s supernatural encounters. The cinematography by Trevor Forrest captures the gritty, urban atmosphere of New York City, adding to the film’s somber and reflective tone. The use of lighting and color enhances the surreal elements of the story, creating a visually engaging experience.
Streaming Availability
For viewers interested in watching Exposed, the film is available on various streaming platforms in the United States. It can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video and Hulu with a subscription. Additionally, it is available for rent or purchase on platforms such as Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, and Amazon Video.
Conclusion
Exposed is a film that offers glimpses of a more profound and surreal narrative but ultimately struggles to reconcile its ambitions with its final form. Despite its narrative flaws, the movie is worth watching for Ana de Armas’ standout performance and its intriguing thematic elements.
While it may not have achieved the critical acclaim or coherence it aspired to, Exposed remains a curious and thought-provoking entry in the mystery drama genre. For those interested in exploring themes of faith, trauma, and the search for truth, it provides a unique, albeit flawed, cinematic experience.
