Cleaner

Cleaner is a suspenseful crime thriller released in 2007, directed by the accomplished Renny Harlin, known for his works like Die Hard 2, and starring an elite cast comprised of talented actors such as Samuel L. Jackson, Ed Harris, and Eva Mendes. The film unravels an intricate web of mystery and corruption that holds the audience on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

The story revolves around Tom Carver, portrayed excellently by Samuel L. Jackson. Tom is a former cop who has found a rather unique way of distancing himself from his past. He now owns and operates a crime scene cleanup service, sanitizing the gruesome aftermath of violent homicide, suicides, and the sort. He's a man who quite literally cleans up the mess left behind by the dark realities of humanity. This rather macabre profession places him in different crime scenes with fascinating backstories, offering viewers a unique, immersive perspective into the grimy underbelly of crime-ridden neighborhoods.

However, Tom's unique line of work soon entangles him in an unexpected quandary as he gradually realizes that his latest job was not the conventional cleanup task it appeared to be. This particular assignment, involving a wealthy family living in opulence, takes a sinister turn as he finds himself implicated in a dangerous puzzle of deception and murder, and he is spurred on to investigate the situation.

Keeping him company is Eddie Lorenzo, an old friend and ex-partner from Tom's police days, masterfully played by Ed Harris. Eddie is a larger-than-life character, loyal, jovial, and strongly linked to Tom's past, raising the intrigue quotient of the narrative. Maintaining a steady camaraderie with Tom, Eddie becomes an integral cog in the wheel of the unfolding mystery, their shared past adding layers of depth and tension to the tale.

Eva Mendes introduces a charming and emotional element to the otherwise intense and dark scenario as Ann Norcut. Ann is a beautiful yet troubled woman who's healing from a deep personal loss. Her life becomes inextricably interconnected with Tom's in uneasy circumstances, thereby escalating the level of suspense and adding a touch of tangled emotionality to the otherwise hard-boiled screenplay.

Filmmaker Renny Harlin shows his skill in successfully building a disquieting and brooding atmosphere of suspense and tension throughout Cleaner. Through vintage-style color grading and artful cinematography, Harlin gives the film a classic noir touch. The dark theme is lightened sporadically by the cleverly timed humor and witty dialogues shared between the characters, providing brief moments of comic relief in the midst of the incessant tension.

Driven primarily by the powerful performances of the lead actors, Cleaner is an engaging cinema experience. Samuel L. Jackson embodies his character with conviction and intensity, journeying through his character's past and present with credible effortlessness. His scenes are artfully nuanced, embodying the conflict of a man battling old demons and newer threats. Ed Harris brings an endearing toughness to his character, while Eva Mendes convincingly portrays a character deep in the throes of grief and desperate for truth.

What makes Cleaner most promising is its unique plot, blending disturbing crime scenes with the unexpected job of cleaning them up. It paints a versatile picture of darkness matched with mystery, humor teamed with wit, and tragedy fused with resilience. The film brilliantly exploits the concept of crime scene cleaning, which brings a fresh outlook to the crime thriller genre. This makes Cleaner a deftly made crime-drama that is both gripping and compelling.

In essence, Cleaner remains faithful to its crime-thriller genre, filled with suspense, enigmatic plot twists, and enthralling performances by its leading cast. It is a visceral exploration of the hidden and grim aspects of crime, making it a must-watch for those who appreciate movies that thrive on suspense, mystery, and intricate character development. So, if you're seeking an entertaining thriller that keeps you guessing till the very end, Cleaner might be the perfect pick for your watchlist.