The definition of a slow burn, this bleak and sparse Australian crime drama is a haunting and provocative winner from aboriginal director (and writer, producer, and cinematographer) Ivan Sen. Starring Simon Baker as a haggard detective trying to solve a 20-year-old cold case, the film moseys its way along (in black and white), powered by solid performances not only from the actors but from the barren setting itself. Reminiscent of 2021’s outstanding ‘The Dry’, it’s a moving and deliberate, almost poetic, noir drama that digs much deeper than you’d ever expect.
4/5 stars