In the Crime film genre, few original plotlines remain, as staples like heists, double-crosses, and morally ambiguous characters have been explored time and again. Yet, it is not the novelty of the story that captivates audiences, but how filmmakers put their spin on these familiar themes, breathing new life into them. When done right, the genre still has the power to seduce with sharp dialogue, strong performances, a memorable score, and striking cinematography – and Lake George delivers all of this. With its unique take on Neo-Noir, the film manages to feel both fresh and familiar, keeping audiences hooked from start to finish.
Lake George is a darkly comic Crime Thriller that channels Jeffrey Reiner’s (Friday Night Lights series, High Fidelity 2020) lifelong passion for noir storytelling, sparked by his admiration for 1964’s The Killers. Directed, written, and produced by Reiner, the film delivers a fun and captivating narrative that while not particularly original in plot, is a fun ride for the audience. The film stars Carrie Coon (His Three Daughters 2023, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire 2024) as Phyllis, a sharp and resourceful femme fatale whose confidence occasionally verges on recklessness.
Opposite her, Shea Whigham (Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part 1 2023, Fancy Dance 2023) delivers a quietly compelling performance as Don, a patsy the audience can empathize with, even when his words are few and his choices are naive. When Don is assigned to kill Phyllis but fails to follow through, the two embark on a road trip to outwit the mobsters chasing them -culminating in a daring heist. Set for release in theaters and digitally through Magnet on December 6, 2024, Lake George is a striking homage to the noir genre, full of tension, surprises, unforgettable performances, and even a few laughs.
The strongest elements of Lake George are undoubtedly its witty dialogue, standout performances, and the electric chemistry between Phyllis and Don. Carrie Coon and Shea Whigham are an unlikely pair, but find an authentic dynamic that easily persuades audiences to root for them – even when it is unclear if either is deserving of such admiration. While dark crimes are being dealt with at every turn of the story, Phyllis’ overconfidence and Don’s pliability make for some quite humorous situations that bring a lightness to the otherwise bleak narrative. At times, the film could benefit from more action to maintain its momentum, but the charming dialogue effortlessly keeps the audience engaged, compensating for the occasional slowdown in pace.
Juxtaposed with the playful dialogue is a somber, understated score. As Phyllis talks Don’s ear off or their plans go awry, the film shifts to stunning shots of California’s coast, accompanied by a soft, melodic piano. This pairing subtly underscores the tension in their situation, reminding the audience that beneath the lighthearted surface, danger looms. The contrast between the tranquil scenery and the rising stakes heightens the sense of unease, reinforcing the characters’ fragile position. This careful balance of visuals and music enhances the emotional weight of the film, making each moment pulse with both humor and a sense of impending danger.
Lake George thematically explores the complexities of trust, survival, and betrayal in a world that offers no easy answers. Phyllis and Don, both flawed and unpredictable, find themselves caught in a web of deceit and danger, and their uneasy alliance becomes the heart of the story. Their journey is one of both self-discovery and desperation, where every decision could lead to disaster (and often does). As Lake George‘s plot unfolds, it continuously subverts genre expectations, using dark humor and clever dialogue to break up the tension and keep the audience engaged with some unexpected twists. The film’s Neo-Noir roots shine through in its exploration of morality, fate, and the choices that define who we become.
Lake George offers a refreshing take on the Crime Thriller genre, blending dark humor, suspense, and Neo-Noir influences in a way that feels both familiar and new. The film thrives on its playful dialogue, standout performances, and the captivating chemistry between Coon and Whigham, whose unlikely partnership draws the audience in. While the plot may follow some familiar beats, its clever subversion of genre conventions and its seamless balance of humor and tension make for an engaging watch from start to finish. With its exploration of trust, betrayal, and survival, Lake George proves that even within the well-trodden territory of Crime films, there is still room for fresh and exciting storytelling. That is why Cryptic Rock gives Lake George 4 out of 5 stars.
){kind=link}
No comment