Cornered

About This Movie

Cornered (2011) scratches that dark itch for crime thrillers with a gritty edge. Taylor Chien’s direction sets a brooding tone as we follow a beleaguered Los Angeles detective trying to unravel a chilling conspiracy. The atmosphere is thick, almost palpable, with a sense of urgency that propels the narrative. The pacing keeps you on your toes, swinging between tense moments and bursts of action, which feels raw and real. Practical effects and some clever camera work give it a tangible feel, which is refreshing these days. Performances bring depth—especially the lead—who really embodies the struggle against a system that’s trying to erase the truth. There’s a certain charm in its unpredictability, making it distinct in the genre.

Strong atmosphere throughoutEngaging performance by the leadInteresting take on government conspiracies