A hitman who took over the family business from his father ends up taking a young woman after she’s witnessed a hit. There is something more to her that is making him care about her survival.
Written and directed by Cameron Van Hoy, Flinch lulls the viewer into its story with strong visuals and a great soundtrack from the very start, bringing the audience in and grabbing them for the rest of the ride. The film is a strong crime drama with a few action set pieces that give the film some oomph here and there. The take on hired killers here is one that humanizes them and gives the lead something more to be than just a gun-for-hire. The way the film handles the connection between the killer and his hostage, that with his mother, that of himself with his work is what makes this one a strong entry in the sub-genre, something more is presented here and it’s what really keeps the attention as you watch the film. The way it is written and how it’s directed really come together in a cohesive vision that allows the story to shine.
The cast is led by Daniel Zovatto as Joey Doyle, the killer for hire at the center of everything, giving a performance that allows the character to have layers to himself, that allows him to have emotions and be multi-dimensional. The character is well-written, but also Zovatto’s performance works great with it here. He is the central character and very much gives the energy the part needs and sells the role as well as the plight of the character just right. Playing his hostage, Mia, is Tilda Cobham-Hervey who is amazing here. Talk about stealing scenes. She’s solid and emotional while keeping something close to the vest, she gives vulnerability, strength, and mystery all at once. She might not be the lead or the star, but she is the one viewers will be looking at as soon as she one the screen, every time she’s on the screen. She’s magnetic, lovely, and strong. Yes, this viewer has a girl crush here she’s so good. Other noteworthy performances are Cathy Moriarty as Gloria Doyle (Joey’s mother) and Micharl Drayer as Connor. Overall, the film has good performances from everyone, with some having more complex parts to sink their teeth into.
The film cinematography, as mentioned quickly above, is on point. The work by Kai Saul is solid with an attention to framing and lighting that is delightful. The cinematography here shows that the film wanted to be more and managed to be more by giving viewers something that pulls them in and guides them into the story in just the right way. Another strong aspect of the film here is the music by Miami Nights 1984. As their name implies, the music is heavily influenced by the 1980s in both the score and the songs. The sound here is almost lulling the viewer in at the start, giving them something comfortable to rely on as the film moves along its violent story.
Flinch is an independent film that proves that talent will take you far, but attention to details, strong storytelling, and good performances will carry your film well above what a glossy billion-dollar affair can do at times. It shows that when the right elements come together in the right way, a memorable film is born.