The Resurgence of Russell Crowe: Why 'Unhinged' is Dominating Netflix

In a surprising turn of events, a forgotten Russell Crowe thriller has taken the top spot on Netflix's U.S. streaming charts. The 2020 action thriller 'Unhinged' has been making waves, not just for its gripping storyline but also for Russell Crowe's electrifying performance as the psychopathic villain Tom Cooper. This resurgence in popularity is a testament to Crowe's enduring appeal and his ability to bring depth and complexity to even the most pulpy of roles.

Directed by Derrick Borte and written by Carl Ellsworth, 'Unhinged' follows the story of Rachel Flynn (Caren Pistorius), a stressed-out single mom who has a bad day turn into a nightmare when she honks at Tom Cooper in traffic. The incident escalates into a campaign of torment as Cooper wages revenge against Rachel, revealing a dark past that makes him more than just an angry driver.

The real draw of 'Unhinged' is undoubtedly Russell Crowe. His performance as Tom Cooper is delightfully psychopathic, making a strong impression from the very start. There's a highly unnerving quality to his character, and even in scenes where he's not technically doing anything violent or aggressive, you get the sense that he's a powder keg just waiting to explode.

Despite mixed reviews from critics, with a 48% score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6/10 on IMDb, viewers have been more impressed. The general audience has rated it much stronger, with a 77% approval rating. This disparity between critical and audience reception highlights the film's ability to entertain without pretenses, making it an easy-watching Netflix thriller that keeps viewers hooked throughout.

The streamlined runtime of 'Unhinged'a mere 93 minutesadds to its appeal. Every moment is dedicated to Rachel's increasingly desperate attempts to outmaneuver a stranger with no ability to control his violent impulses. This unrelenting pace ensures that the film never stops moving, even if the overarching plot is thin.

Why Critics Got It Wrong

Critics have been divided in their assessment of 'Unhinged.' Some have panned it as a disposable thriller packed with cheap shocks, while others have praised its old-school approach and Russell Crowe's committed performance. However, as noted by Tom's Guide, 'Unhinged' moves at such an unrelenting pace that you don't have time to stop and think about the inconsistencies.

In an article by Tom's Guide, it was highlighted that part of the enjoyment of 'Unhinged' was aided by the context in which it was seen. After cinemas were closed for so long due to the global pandemic, there was a sense of liberation in watching any movie on the big screen. Now, more than four years later, 'Unhinged' is enjoying a resurgence in popularity on Netflix U.S., rocketing straight to the No. 3 spot behind only 'Bad Boys: Ride or Die' and new romantic drama 'Lonely Planet.'

This action-thriller centers on a case of extreme road rage that escalates far beyond a heated exchange of words and a few car horn beeps. The incident results in Rachel's already tough day taking a major turn towards nightmarish as following their initial fiery interaction, Tom Cooper begins to follow Rachel across the city to score vengeance for her act of impoliteness.

The positive reviews note that while 'Unhinged' might not have much to say, Russell Crowe offers a compelling performance as the psychopathic villain. The action never stops once it starts, making it an entertaining ride from beginning to end.

Russell Crowe's Career Highlights

Russell Crowe is no stranger to playing complex characters. His career spans a wide range of roles, from the titular character in 'Gladiator' to the obsessive mathematician John Nash in 'A Beautiful Mind.' These performances have cemented his status as one of Hollywood's most versatile actors.

In recent years, Crowe has been exploring different genres and roles. His portrayal of Pope Pius XIII in 'The Pope's Exorcist' showcases his ability to bring depth and humor to even the most unusual characters. This versatility is a key factor in his enduring appeal and ability to attract audiences across various demographics.

The success of 'Unhinged' on Netflix highlights the need for more villainous roles for Russell Crowe. As noted by MovieWeb, 'Unhinged' proves that Crowe should play more villains. His performance as Tom Cooper is a testament to his ability to bring menace and unpredictability to the screen.

In conclusion, 'Unhinged' is not just a forgotten thriller but a testament to Russell Crowe's enduring talent. Its resurgence on Netflix U.S. charts is a reminder that sometimes it's the old-school approach that resonates with audiences. With its unrelenting pace and compelling performances, 'Unhinged' is a must-watch for anyone looking for an easy-watching Netflix thriller.

Learn More at Direct Post