Rebel Ridge Review
Initial Release: September 6, 2024
Director: Jeremy Saulnier
Distributed by: Netflix
Cinematography: David Gallego
Music by: Brooke Blair and Will Blair
Run Time: 2h 11m
Original Language: English
Watch Film: Available on Netflix
About “Rebel Ridge” (2024)
“Rebel Ridge” and “First Blood” (1982) share notable similarities, making the comparison almost inevitable. However, while both films feature protagonists challenging corrupt systems, “Rebel Ridge” distinguishes itself as a slow-burning crime thriller rather than a straightforward action film.
Director Jeremy Saulnier, renowned for his tension-filled storytelling, builds the drama meticulously before unleashing bursts of intense action. The story follows Terry (Aaron Pierre) as he battles a corrupt police force led by a manipulative chief (Don Johnson), uncovering deeper layers of abuse and injustice.
According to Flickluster.com, Terry’s arrival in town to pay his brother’s bail takes a sinister turn when the police run him over and seize his money, claiming it to be drug-related. Read more.
According to theguardian.com, this much-delayed film from acclaimed US director Jeremy Saulnier (known for “Blue Ruin” and “Green Room”) finally launches on Netflix. Charismatic British actor Aaron Pierre replaces John Boyega, who left the project in 2021 due to family reasons.
The first third of the film, “Rebel Ridge” works bracingly well, following Pierre’s formidable ex-marine Terry Richmond as he confronts the corrupt police department of a small Louisiana town. Read more.
Cast:
- Aaron Pierre
- Don Johnson
- AnnaSophia Robb
- David Denman
- Emory Cohen
- Steve Zissis
- Zsane Jhe
- Dana Lee
- James Cromwell
Rebel RidgeRating:
- Rotten Tomatoes 🍅: 95%
- IMDb: 6.9/10
- Google: 3.7/5
Conclusion:
“Rebel Ridge,” directed by Jeremy Saulnier, offers a compelling take on the crime thriller genre, blending slow-burn tension with sudden bursts of action. The film stands out for its meticulous buildup and nuanced portrayal of corruption and injustice. Although it draws some parallels to “First Blood,” it forges its own unique path. Aaron Pierre delivers a gripping performance as Terry, confronting a corrupt police force led by the formidable Don Johnson. With strong performances from its stellar cast and Saulnier’s signature storytelling style, “Rebel Ridge” is a must-watch. Available on Netflix, it keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while exploring deeper themes of systemic abuse.