“Sleepless” (2017) Movie Review: A Non-Stop Action Thriller
Introduction
“Sleepless,” a 2017 action thriller directed by Baran bo Odar, stars Jamie Foxx, Michelle Monaghan, and Dermot Mulroney. The film, a remake of the 2011 French film “Nuit Blanche,” follows an undercover cop as he battles against time and criminals to rescue his kidnapped son. This review delves into the plot, performances, action sequences, and where to stream or rent “Sleepless” in the United States.
Plot Summary
The film revolves around Vincent Downs (Jamie Foxx), a Las Vegas police officer who finds himself embroiled in a high-stakes battle after a drug heist goes wrong. During the heist, Vincent and his partner steal a shipment of cocaine belonging to a powerful crime lord, Rob Novak (Scoot McNairy). In retaliation, Novak’s men kidnap Vincent’s teenage son, Thomas (Octavius J. Johnson), demanding the return of the stolen drugs.
As Vincent races against time to rescue his son, he navigates the dangerous underworld of corrupt cops and ruthless gangsters. Complicating matters, Internal Affairs investigator Jennifer Bryant (Michelle Monaghan) is hot on Vincent’s trail, suspecting him of being dirty. The film’s tension escalates as Vincent’s double life unravels, leading to a gripping showdown in a luxurious casino.
Performance and Direction
Jamie Foxx delivers a compelling performance as Vincent Downs, effectively portraying a father desperate to save his son while maintaining his undercover facade. His physicality and intensity drive the film, anchoring the action with emotional depth. Michelle Monaghan shines as Jennifer Bryant, adding layers to her character’s determination and moral conflict. Dermot Mulroney and Scoot McNairy are convincing in their roles as the film’s antagonists, adding to the tension and drama.
Director Baran bo Odar keeps the pace relentless, ensuring that the film maintains its high-octane energy from start to finish. His direction effectively balances intense action sequences with moments of character development, making “Sleepless” a well-rounded thriller.
Cinematography and Special Effects
The cinematography by Mihai Mălaimare Jr. captures the neon-lit allure of Las Vegas, using dynamic camera work to enhance the film’s action sequences. The film’s visual style complements its fast-paced narrative, creating an immersive experience for viewers. Special effects and practical stunts are executed proficiently, adding realism to the film’s many action scenes.
Streaming Availability
In the United States, “Sleepless” is available for streaming on various platforms. You can watch it on:
- Netflix
- Amazon Prime Video (with a subscription)
Rental and Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or purchase “Sleepless,” the film is available on multiple major platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- iTunes: Rent or buy with options for HD.
- Google Play: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- YouTube Movies: Rent or buy in HD and SD.
- Vudu: Rent or buy in HDX, HD, and SD.
Conclusion
“Sleepless” offers a thrilling ride with non-stop action and intense performances, particularly from Jamie Foxx. While the film may follow familiar genre tropes, its execution keeps viewers engaged and entertained. Fans of action-packed thrillers will find “Sleepless” a satisfying watch, blending high-stakes drama with adrenaline-pumping sequences.
