The Guilty (2018) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Discover our in-depth review of The Guilty (2018), a tense Danish thriller. Find out where to watch online, including streaming, rental, and purchase options in the U.S.
The Guilty (2018) Review: A Tense and Gripping Thriller in a Single Location
The Guilty (Den skyldige), directed by Gustav Möller and released in 2018, is a masterclass in minimalist filmmaking. This Danish thriller, set almost entirely in a single location, takes the audience on a nerve-wracking journey through one man’s desperate attempt to save a life. With its taut pacing, gripping performances, and inventive use of sound, The Guilty proves that a film doesn’t need elaborate sets or multiple characters to deliver an intense and unforgettable experience.
Plot Overview
The Guilty centers on Asger Holm (Jakob Cedergren), a former police officer demoted to working as an emergency dispatcher. Asger’s shift at the call center seems routine until he receives a distressing call from a woman named Iben (Jessica Dinnage), who claims to have been kidnapped. With limited information and no way to see what’s happening, Asger is forced to rely solely on his voice and the few tools at his disposal to piece together the situation and try to save Iben.
As the story unfolds in real-time, the film reveals layers of complexity, not just in the case Asger is trying to solve, but also in Asger’s own backstory. Asger’s determination to resolve the situation is driven by his own guilt and a desire for redemption, making the film as much about his personal journey as it is about the unfolding crisis.
The film’s tension is amplified by the fact that the audience, like Asger, only experiences the events through sound, relying on dialogue, ambient noises, and Asger’s reactions to imagine what’s happening on the other end of the line. This creates a uniquely immersive experience that keeps viewers on edge from start to finish.
Cinematic Excellence
Gustav Möller’s direction in The Guilty is both bold and effective, showcasing how powerful storytelling can be achieved with limited resources. By confining the entire film to a single room and focusing on one character’s perspective, Möller heightens the sense of isolation and urgency that drives the narrative. The film’s minimalist approach also places a significant burden on Jakob Cedergren, who delivers a standout performance as Asger. His portrayal of a man battling both external and internal demons is nuanced and compelling, capturing the audience’s attention and sympathy throughout.
The sound design in The Guilty is particularly noteworthy. With no visual cues to rely on, the film uses sound to build tension and convey the horror and desperation of the situation. Every sound—whether it’s the tone of a voice, the noise of traffic, or the silence between words—carries weight and meaning, drawing the audience deeper into the story.
The screenplay, co-written by Gustav Möller and Emil Nygaard Albertsen, is tightly constructed, with no wasted dialogue or unnecessary scenes. The script’s economy of language reflects the film’s overall minimalist style, allowing the story’s tension to build naturally and relentlessly.
The Legacy of The Guilty (2018)
The Guilty received widespread acclaim upon its release, winning the Audience Award at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival and the World Cinema Dramatic Award at the same festival. The film’s success lies in its ability to engage and thrill audiences with a story that is both simple and complex, intimate yet expansive.
The film has been praised for its innovative approach to the thriller genre, proving that a gripping story doesn’t require elaborate action sequences or multiple locations. The Guilty also sparked discussions about the potential of single-location films and how they can challenge both filmmakers and audiences to think differently about storytelling.
Due to its success, The Guilty was remade in 2021 as an English-language film starring Jake Gyllenhaal, but the original remains a benchmark for how to create tension and drama through minimalistic filmmaking.
Where to Watch The Guilty (2018) Online
For those looking to watch The Guilty (2018) online, several streaming and rental options are available in the United States:
- Streaming Services:
- Netflix: The Guilty is available for streaming on Netflix, where subscribers can enjoy the film as part of their membership. Netflix offers high-definition streaming, providing a great viewing experience.
- Hulu: The film might also be available on Hulu, which offers a broad selection of international films, including critically acclaimed thrillers like The Guilty.
- Rental/Purchase Options:
- iTunes: Apple users can rent or purchase The Guilty on iTunes. The platform provides the film in various formats, ensuring a seamless viewing experience on Apple devices.
- Google Play: For Android users, The Guilty is available on Google Play for rental or purchase. The platform supports viewing across multiple devices, making it a convenient option.
- YouTube Movies: The Guilty is also available for rental or purchase on YouTube Movies, offering another accessible option for online viewing.
Conclusion
The Guilty (2018) is a taut, thrilling experience that showcases the power of minimalist storytelling. With its gripping narrative, intense performances, and innovative use of sound, the film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Gustav Möller’s direction and Jakob Cedergren’s compelling performance make The Guilty a must-watch for fans of suspenseful, character-driven dramas.
For those eager to watch The Guilty online, options are available on platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, iTunes, Google Play, and YouTube Movies. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this remarkable film that pushes the boundaries of what a thriller can be.
