Split Second

Split Second, released in 1992 and directed by Tony Maylam and Ian Sharp, is a dark, edgy fusion of horror, science fiction, and action genres. The movie features the charismatic Rutger Hauer in the lead role, who skillfully brings to life Harley Stone, a rogue detective driven by the haunting memories of his partner's murder.

Set in the near future 2008, the backdrop of the movie is a dystopian, flooding London, grappling with the destructive fallout of global warming. This serves to intensify the brooding tone of the film and permeates its underlying content of mutant terror, action-filled quests, and psychological turmoil. Leveraging the ominous ambience of this submerged-city setting, the film artfully spins a tale that explores the synergies between the horror of the potential future and the sadistic killer on the loose.

Rutger Hauer's portrayal of Stone adds a compelling layer of complexity to the overall narrative. The actor, as a PTSD afflicted, coffee-addicted, insomniac cop, seamlessly delivers a performance marked by the character's raw emotional angst and relentless pursuit of justice. Stone's obsession with finding the serial killer, who murdered his partner three years ago and now targets him, weaves the plot's central thread. His intuitive sense of connection with the killer's mind frames the gripping chase and raises the tension notch by notch.

Kim Cattrall, known for her nuanced performances, plays Michelle, the late partner's wife who now becomes Stone's unlikely ally and love interest. Her evolving relationship with Stone adds an emotional dimension to the otherwise hard-boiled storyline. At the same time, Cattrall's performance doesn't downplay the suspenseful, eerie feel that dominates the film.

Alastair Duncan essays the role of Stone's new partner, Durkin. Initially sceptical of the entire scenario, Durkin's blend of determination and relenting nature significantly contributes to building the insurgent atmosphere of the film. His growing acceptance of Stone's unconventional methods and his stride towards the uncertain future the film presents keeps the audience on edge.

What sets Split Second apart is its unique blend of science fiction and horror. The very essence of the unidentified, monstrous antagonist being more a product of scientific aberration than fantasy brings a chilling probability to the storyline. Shrouded in the mystery of the submerged city, the dark corners and back alleys of this dystopian world are packed with looming threats and unseen dangers, heightening the viewer's sense of dread.

The film's cinematography effectively portrays the bleakness and dread of the future, creating a convincing dystopian landscape. High-speed pursuits and claustrophobic indoor scenes are starkly contrasted with the scarily immersive underwater sequences. The eerie silences are broken by periods of high-octane action sequences, which, coupled with high stakes, make for a movie that keeps its audience on the edge of their seats.

The movie digs deep into our darkest fears and presents an engaging sequence of harrowing experiences within London's bleak and terrifyingly realistic future. Its screenplay is teeming with a heavy dose of suspense, thrilling action and a dash of dark humor sprinkled in between, to lighten the tension-packed narrative.

Moreover, the elaborate costume design, be it the gnawed and water-soaked urban wear or the intimidating monster itself, are a testament to the creative prowess involved in the production. The haunting, sinister soundtrack markedly enhances the atmospheric dread of this film.

Split Second intermixes elements of action, horror, and sci-fi, adroitly spinning a narrative that capitalizes on humanity's primal fears and offers riveting suspense. With its well-paced storytelling, committed performances from the cast, particularly Hauer's riveting portrayal of the troubled Stone, and the ingenious use of its dystopian setting, Split Second has all the makings of a cult classic film. This movie will certainly be appreciated by fans of sci-fi and horror genres, along with those viewers who appreciate a well-spun narrative with engaging lead performances.