The Infiltrator

Opening:
Walter White has now become the good guy in this and I don’t know what to do anymore. What is life? Does it work? Let’s get reel and break this down.

Plot:
A U.S. Customs official uncovers a money laundering scheme involving Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar.

Directing/Writing

Pros:
The tense direction given to the story is one that will keep you on edge all the way up to the bust at the end, even though you know what’s coming. The 80’s gritty film look adds a vintage look to the overall story. You feel like you are there in the cross hairs with the characters. The dialogue is also potent in scenes adding to the suspense.

Cons:
I don’t know if I am the only one that thought this but I feel like, even though I felt satisfied by the end, the resolution was bit rushed. The third act felt jumbled and rushed to finish and some of the scenes in general seemed a bit cut off and abrupt and not letting the story breathe. Some characters are favored over others leaving some in the dust and feeling underdeveloped.

Acting

Pros:
Bryan Cranston is a knock-out. He always brings it to every role and this is no different. He is a flawed infiltrator but at the end of the day he is doing is his job to bring the correct people to justice. All the supporting cast is great too. John Leguizamo is also a standout and there was one scene in particular where I felt all the emotions of what an infiltrator actually goes through and how it can psychologically have a toll on you. Its little moments like that with the characters that really add another level of depth.

Cons:
None.

Cinematography

Pros:
This film has a grainy texture adding to the 1980’s old school flair. It’s darkly lit feeling like the seedy underbelly of Escobar’s drug ring. With the darkness and the fact it’s set in Miami, I feel the dirt, sweat and tears from these characters making you really get invested in the story.

Cons:
None.

Editing/Special Effects

Pros:
The story plays out as a roller coaster ride and you are taken on this journey of corruption, greed, and the pursuit of justice. The tension is brimming and there are a lot of scenes that will glue you to the screen.

Cons:
After the great opening, it was hard to get into it at first but as the movie kept progressing I got more invested.

Overall:
With movies like Donnie Brasco, the infiltrating premise has been done before but, with the excellent acting, entertaining journey, and gritty, dark look to it, this is one I recommend you to check out.

Grade: B+
(Review by Chase Lee)