Blue Iguana

Blue Iguana is a 2018 British comedy thriller directed and written by Hadi Hajaig. It stars Academy Award winner Sam Rockwell, alongside accomplished actors like Phoebe Fox and Ben Schwartz. The film is an unusual blend of comedy, noir, and action, which makes it stand out from the throng of conventional Hollywood thrillers.

The film centers around an ex-con Eddie (Sam Rockwell) and his partner in crime, Paul (Ben Schwartz), who are on parole working in a New York diner, a setting far removed from their usual criminal underworld. Their lives take a drastic turn when an English lawyer Katherine Rookwood (Phoebe Fox) many of us involved in a dangerous heist over the Pond in London, making an offer they can't – or rather don't want to – refuse.

How these misfits find themselves neck-deep in what promises to be their most dangerous yet exciting undertaking forms the crux of the narrative. There's a strong echo of many classic heist films as well as tongue-in-cheek affectionate nod towards retro British crime flicks, all the while flavored with the character-driven humor that anchors their precarious situation.

The film navigates this fine balance with admirable dexterity, cultivating a uniquely dark but amusing ambiance that pervades through each scene. There is a looming sense of consequence that persists despite the movie's comedic aspects, mostly stemming from the penumbral underbelly of the London crime world that forms the backdrop of the story.

Sam Rockwell, known for his dynamic acting prowess, slips into the role of Eddie with ease, showcasing once again how proficiently he portrays complex characters- this time an ex-con semi-reluctantly jumping back into the crime world. Aligned to his character's temperament, he brings an array of emotions to the table – from being funny and likeable to exhibiting underlying existentialist anxieties.

Ben Schwartz, known for his comedy roles, brings a whimsical, almost absurd humor to his character Paul. Their camaraderie makes for some good laughs, as does their interactions with Katherine Rookwood, played by Phoebe Fox. Fox, in her role as the adventurous lawyer who gets them the gig, does a commendable job standing shoulder to shoulder with her male counterparts, holding her ground and adding her distinct flavor to the volatile mix.

Blue Iguana distinguishes itself with its unpredictability. Just when you believe you've figured out what's going to happen next, the movie takes a sharp turn, catapulting the audience into an entirely unanticipated direction. It's far from a tale of smooth criminals doing what they do best. No, everything that can go wrong does, leading toward a progression of chaotic events tied together with sardonic humor.

Despite the riotous scenarios, the film honors the spirit of a true thriller with memorable action sequences and moments of genuine tension. It's nearly impossible to predict the trajectory of this non-linear narrative, making each unfolding event more exciting than the last. One of the film's true strengths lies in keeping the audience engaged until the very end.

At its heart, though, beneath all the tangled webs of heist plans, eccentric characters, and dark humor, Blue Iguana is about redemption. It explores the eternal human struggle to break free of past constraints and choices, searching for a sense of purpose amidst chaos.

Visually, the movie strikes a chord with unique set designs and neon-hued palette during nighttime scenes, adding an aura of strange appeal. London's dingy underbelly is depicted in all its rawness cueing the undertone of danger lurking beneath the seemingly regular environments.

In short, Blue Iguana offers a roller coaster ride of humor, drama, and suspense, coupled with commendable performances and a unique narrative style. It takes the well-trodden path of a heist film and spins it into an innovative comic noir unfamiliar to the traditional Hollywood audience. It’s a compelling tribute to the genre and promises a ride replete with hilarity and entertainment. A must-watch for those seeking a refreshing angle on the typical heist film.