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Exploring Class Struggles in David Yarovesky’s Locked

In a world where the divide between the wealthy and the underprivileged grows increasingly stark, David Yarovesky’s film Locked attempts to tap into the frustrations of the disenfranchised. However, while the premise has the potential to provoke thought and ignite outrage, the film ultimately falls short of delivering a meaningful critique. Revolving around a petty criminal who finds himself trapped in a luxury SUV rigged by a shadowy aristocrat, the movie leans more towards spectacle than social commentary, culminating in a narrative that, while engaging, lacks depth.

Bill Skarsgård, known for his standout performances in It and Nosferatu, stars as Eddie, a desperate thief ensnared in the vehicle’s sinister traps. As Eddie grapples with his dire situation, he becomes the sole focus of the film, wrestling with the physical and psychological torment inflicted by an unseen tormentor embodied by the voice of Anthony Hopkins. The captivity not only serves to elevate the tension but also highlights Eddie’s struggles, unveiling a man who is deeply flawed yet somehow elicits a modicum of empathy.

Although Sam Raimi is credited as a producer, fans of his iconic work may find Locked does not quite reach the high standards set by his earlier projects. Despite its potentially rich narrative setup, it often skims the surface of pressing issues like economic disparity and entrenched social division, rendering its commentary superficial at best.

‘Locked’ – An Exploration of Wealth Inequality and Its Consequences

Release Date: March 21, 2025

Runtime: 95 minutes

Writers: Michael Arlen Ross

Producers: A team including Bill Skarsgård, Trevor Osmond, Divya Shahani, and more.

Pros & Cons

• Skarsgård delivers a compelling performance, carrying the weight of the film alone.
• The tension remains palpable as viewers invest in Eddie’s fate.
• Hopkins’ voice work adds a layer of gravitas to the villainous role.

• The film does not evoke tension as effectively as comparable works such as Buried.
• Moral discussions lack sophistication, reading more like a high school debate.
• The climax feels prolonged, with a resolution that lacks originality.

Loosely based on the 2019 Argentine thriller 4×4, Locked reflects universal themes of income inequality and desperation. However, in its American remake, screenwriter Michael Arlen Ross tends to dumb down the narrative with predictable tropes, opting for sensationalist elements like high-speed chases and exaggerated violence. Yarovesky opts for a heavy-handed depiction of urban decay, painting a picture of dilapidated surroundings that serve as a backdrop to Eddie’s grim life.

When Eddie stumbles upon an unguarded luxury SUV, his decision to break in leads to unintended consequences. As the doors seal shut, panic ensues, leading to a rapid decline into chaos that Yarovesky illustrates with frenetic cinematography. Suddenly, Eddie’s plight becomes entwined with the machinations of the car’s unknown owner, William, a wealthy doctor whose distaste for thieves drives his quest for vengeance.

Bill Skarsgård: The Antihero Transformation

Skarsgård’s portrayal of Eddie transcends mere villainy; his nuanced performance elicits a blend of scorn and sympathy. Initially, viewers might struggle to find allegiance with this down-and-out character, especially when confronted with the mercilessly righteous William, whose elaborate revenge hinges on Eddie’s misfortune. William wields his wealth as a weapon, subjecting Eddie to physical and psychological torture, maintaining a façade of moral superiority.

As the narrative progresses, dynamics shift. The initial appeal of William’s machinations gives way to a more sinister reality when he resorts to threats against Eddie’s family, solidifying Eddie’s status as an unlikely protagonist. This transition highlights themes of morality and justice, albeit in a somewhat clumsy manner.

Another Chapter in the ‘Saw’ Franchise?

While comparisons to other films centering around isolation and moral dilemmas abound, Locked carves its niche more along the lines of the Saw franchise than that of Locke or Buried. It explores human depravity through the luxury of psychological torment rather than direct violence. The film flirts with deeper existential questions surrounding moral accountability and societal failure, making it relevant to contemporary discourse on law enforcement and vigilante justice.

However, the film occasionally loses traction as it devolves into predictable sequences, particularly during its drawn-out climax. By shifting to a remote-controlled pursuit, Yarovesky sacrifices the intensity that initially engages the audience, leaving a sense of dissatisfaction.

In conclusion, while Locked presents an ambitious premise reflective of current social themes, it ultimately stumbles through an uneven execution. Its commitment to exploring the psychological aspects of crime and punishment may not be enough to cement its scene within a parable of social justice. Set for release in theaters on March 21, it offers a mix of suspense and social commentary, albeit overshadowed by its missed opportunities.

Source
movieweb.com