Thrills and Chills in the Canadian Thriller 'In Cold Light'

The Canadian thriller 'In Cold Light' introduces viewers to a familiar scenario: drug dealers in a jam. Despite being a familiar plot point, this film stands out, thanks largely to its compelling cast and fast-paced action. One of the main criticisms is that in the pursuit of visceral impact, the film sometimes tends to neglect narrative clarity, leaving some questions unanswered. However, the rapid momentum doesn't leave much room for critique.

The film starts with Ava, a tough and resourceful character played by Maika Monroe, being arrested and jailed. Released after a few years, Ava returns home to her deaf father (played by Oscar-winning actor Troy Kotsur from CODA) and twin brother Tom (Jesse Irving). Despite her apparent intention to lead a clean life, the lure of the drug trade, still prevalent in her brother’s life, pulls Ava back. A police stop triggers a series of events that leave Ava fleeing from a horde of ruthless criminals.

Monroe, already beloved for her roles in films like 'It Follows' and 'Longlegs', delivers a strong performance as Ava. She offers a layered portrayal of a character that is at once tough, vulnerable, and ultimately, relatable. Adding complexity to the mix, Ava is burdened with her brother's baby and must find the courage to embrace motherhood on top of her existing struggles.

'In Cold Light' marks the English-language debut of French-Canadian director Maxime Giroux. Despite the sometimes graphic violence, Giroux masterfully maintains the movie’s fast pace. Viewers are given respite through scenes featuring Ava and her father, although they may be left yearning to learn more about his past as a rodeo celebrity.

The film's striking cinematography, particularly of Alberta’s mesmerizing landscapes, provides a richness that's often missing in drug-themed thrillers. This credit goes to cinematographer Sara Mishara, whose work remains captivating even amidst the violence.

A noteworthy feature of the movie is the appearance of two Oscar winners: Troy Kotsur and Helen Hunt. While Kotsur’s role is more prominent, Hunt's brief yet memorable appearance as a drug boss further elevates this film. Despite the high levels of violence, it's the performances and Mishara's cinematography that infuse depth into what would otherwise have been a run-of-the-mill genre picture. The filmmakers' success in making viewers empathize with Monroe’s character in such a bleak setting is particularly commendable.