The Last Days of American Crime (2020) Movie Review: A Gritty Crime Thriller with a Futuristic Twist
The Last Days of American Crime (2020) is a crime thriller directed by Olivier Megaton, based on the graphic novel of the same name by Rick Remender and Greg Tocchini. The film stars Edgar Ramirez, Anna Brewster, and Michael Pitt, and is set in a dystopian near-future where a government plot to control criminal behavior sets the stage for a high-stakes heist. Combining elements of crime drama with speculative fiction, the film explores themes of morality, free will, and resistance.
In this review, we’ll dive into the plot, performances, visual style, and where you can stream The Last Days of American Crime online in the U.S.
Plot Overview: A Dystopian Heist
Set in the near future, The Last Days of American Crime takes place in a world where the U.S. government is on the brink of implementing a new technology designed to end all criminal activity. This technology, known as the American Peace Initiative, will use a signal to make people incapable of committing crimes. As the signal’s activation date approaches, a desperate criminal named Graham Bricke (played by Edgar Ramirez) plans one final heist to secure his future.
Graham, along with his partner Kevin Cash (played by Michael Pitt), is determined to pull off a major score before the technology becomes active. They team up with Shelby Dupree (played by Anna Brewster), a cunning and resourceful accomplice with her own agenda. The heist becomes increasingly complicated as the trio navigates a treacherous world of betrayal, violence, and moral dilemmas.
As the activation of the American Peace Initiative looms, the stakes get higher, and the characters are forced to confront their own beliefs about freedom, control, and the nature of crime. The film’s plot twists and turns, keeping viewers on edge as the characters grapple with their choices and the impending societal changes.
Performances: A Mixed Bag of Talent
Edgar Ramirez leads the cast as Graham Bricke, bringing a sense of intensity and desperation to the role. Ramirez’s performance captures Graham’s inner turmoil and determination, though some critics felt that his character’s development could have been more nuanced.
Anna Brewster as Shelby Dupree provides a strong presence in the film, portraying a character who is both enigmatic and driven. Brewster’s performance adds complexity to the narrative, and her interactions with Ramirez and Pitt drive much of the film’s dramatic tension.
Michael Pitt plays Kevin Cash, a character whose motivations and actions add layers of unpredictability to the story. Pitt’s portrayal brings an edge to the role, though some viewers may find his character’s development to be less engaging compared to others.
The supporting cast includes Sharlto Copley and Lena Headey, who bring additional depth and intrigue to the film. Their performances contribute to the overall atmosphere of tension and moral ambiguity.
Visual Style and Direction: A Gritty and Futuristic Aesthetic
Director Olivier Megaton creates a visually striking film with a gritty, futuristic aesthetic. The film’s setting is a blend of dystopian elements and modern crime drama, with a focus on dark, atmospheric visuals that reflect the film’s themes of control and chaos.
The cinematography captures the tension and urgency of the story, with dynamic camera work and a moody color palette. The film’s depiction of a society on the brink of transformation adds a layer of urgency to the narrative, enhancing the sense of impending change.
The action sequences are intense and well-choreographed, adding to the film’s overall sense of excitement. However, some critics felt that the film’s pacing and visual style could be inconsistent at times, impacting the overall engagement of the story.
Themes and Morality: Control vs. Freedom
At its core, The Last Days of American Crime explores themes of control, freedom, and the nature of criminal behavior. The American Peace Initiative represents a radical attempt to eliminate crime by overriding individual choice, raising questions about the balance between security and personal freedom.
The film delves into the moral and philosophical implications of such a technology, questioning whether it is possible to truly eradicate crime without compromising fundamental human rights. The characters’ actions and motivations reflect the broader societal debate over control and autonomy, adding depth to the film’s narrative.
Additionally, the heist element of the story highlights the complexity of human behavior, as the characters navigate their own desires and moral dilemmas in the face of a changing world. The film’s exploration of these themes adds a thought-provoking dimension to the otherwise action-driven plot.
Reception and Critique: A Divisive Entry
The Last Days of American Crime received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While some appreciated the film’s ambitious premise and visual style, others criticized its execution and pacing. The film holds a 20% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting a range of opinions on its effectiveness as a crime thriller and speculative fiction piece.
Critics often noted that while the film’s concept was intriguing, its execution fell short of expectations. The film’s exploration of its themes and its character development received mixed feedback, with some viewers finding the narrative engaging and others feeling it lacked depth.
Where to Watch The Last Days of American Crime (2020) Online in America
If you’re interested in watching The Last Days of American Crime, you can find it on the following platforms:
1. Netflix
Mistress America is available for streaming exclusively on Netflix. The film is part of Netflix’s original content library and can be accessed with a subscription.
2. Amazon Prime Video
At the time of writing, The Last Days of American Crime is not available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. However, availability may change, so it’s worth checking periodically.
3. Apple TV
The film is not available for rental or purchase on Apple TV at the moment, but it is advisable to check regularly for any updates.
4. Google Play Movies & TV
The film is not listed for rental or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV at this time. Keep an eye on this platform for potential future availability.
5. Vudu
Vudu does not currently offer The Last Days of American Crime for rental or purchase. Check periodically for any changes in availability.
Conclusion: A Gritty Heist with Thought-Provoking Themes
The Last Days of American Crime (2020) is a gritty and ambitious crime thriller that combines elements of speculative fiction with a high-stakes heist. While the film’s concept is intriguing and its visual style is striking, its reception has been mixed due to its execution and pacing.
Available for streaming on Netflix, the film offers an interesting take on the intersection of technology, crime, and freedom, though its impact may vary depending on individual tastes. Whether you’re a fan of dystopian thrillers or curious about the film’s unique premise, The Last Days of American Crime provides a thought-provoking and action-packed viewing experience.
