Small Crimes

Small Crimes is a darkly comedic crime drama, released in 2017, that features Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Robert Forster, and Jacki Weaver. This gritty and bleak film is permeated with intrigue, demonstrating what happens when poorly made decisions draw an individual into a web of further self-destruction and criminality. Small Crimes is not just a tale of personal redemption, but a document of how one man's mistakes can impact an entire community.

Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, widely recognized for his role as Jaime Lannister in the hit series Game of Thrones, offers a gripping performance as Joe Denton, a disgraced former cop and recovering alcoholic. After spending six years in prison for attempted murder and resisting arrest, Denton returns home hoping to start afresh. Yet, serene suburban life isn't exactly in the cards for Denton, and he soon finds himself tangled in a web of past misdeeds, proving that escaping one's past is hardly a feasible endeavor.

The film does a masterful job of exhibiting Coster-Waldau's ability to humanize a fundamentally flawed character, making audiences simultaneously root for and against him. His character, Denton, is far from being a regular hero - he is selfish, cunning, and desperate, hence perfectly embodying the film’s central theme of moral complexity.

Robert Forster's portrayal of Denton's disapproving father is also commendable. Forster's performance is replete with subtlety and depth, as he features the struggles of a parent who loves his child but is disappointed with who he has become. His despairing attempts to reconnect with his wayward son give the film an added emotional layer.

Jacki Weaver, as the sinister and manipulative matriarch of a crime family, is yet another standout in this ensemble cast. Her manipulative charm and menacing presence spices up the story, bringing a sense of dread and uncertainty to the mix.

The title ‘Small Crimes’ is indicative of the overarching theme of the film. It encapsulates the essence of the story where seemingly small missteps can lead to severe repercussions. The narrative unravels the state of a man plagued with guilt, remorse, and the dire need to make amends for his past mistakes, whilst his past and underworld connections continue to haunt and draw him towards an imminent catastrophe.

The film's setting in a suburban small town adds a distinct layer to the narrative. It provides a stark contrast between the tranquility of the surroundings and the internal turmoil of its central character, thereby amplifying the suspense and the dramatic quotient of the storyline.

The director, Evan Katz, who also co-wrote the script, employs black humor and intense ambiance to tell the gripping story. His narrative strategy of keeping audiences continuously questioning Denton's motives creates a palpable tension throughout. The film weaves a complex narrative that explores themes of repentance, redemption, family dynamics, and the rippling aftermath of crime. Katz's on-point depiction of the raw brutality of the criminal underworld and sincere effort to showcase deep character arcs are noteworthy.

Small Crimes has its unique take on the crime genre, and it balances comedy and criminality in a way that’s uncommonly nuanced. The film doesn’t shy away from showcasing the grim realities of urban crime, effectively blended with equal parts tension and dark humor.

Overall, Small Crimes is a brilliant metaphor of how 'small' crimes can often lead to bigger, life-altering consequences. Aided by power-packed performances, suspenseful plot, and revitalizing dark comedy, it's a film that incites deep contemplation on the root causes of moral erosion and reflects on the imperative need for redemption. It leaves audiences with a nuanced appreciation for the devastating impacts of seemingly insignificant crimes and their far-reaching impacts.