Plot: What’s it about?
While Bryan Cranston might not be a household name, I suspect he’s now best known for his work on the highly praised TV show Breaking Bad. I’ve yet to watch a single episode, but it’s definitely on my “To watch list”. In Cold Comes The Night Cranston stars as a nearly blind criminal known as TOPO. He doesn’t talk much and wears red tinted sunglasses at all times. He has a driver who he’s traveling with to deliver money to their boss. Circumstances (which I won’t spoil although the back of the case does) puts him in contact with Chloe (Alice Eve). She runs a hotel with her daughter and is on the verge of losing her daughter if she can’t provide a more suitable atmosphere for her since the motel is a little run down. There are a few more characters who show up, but ultimately TOPO is using Chloe and her daughter in order to track down the money he was delivering since it was recently stolen by someone that Chloe knows. The money is stolen by Billy (Logan Marshal-Green), he’s a corrupt police officer who has a history with Chloe and often takes advantage of her. It’s this that sets up the basic premise of the film.
Before I received this film for review I had never even heard of it. I am glad I had the opportunity to check it out as it offers a fast, involving experience. The film flew by and kept me involved throughout its brief running time. Cranston does fine work here as TOPO. We’re never quite sure what he’ll do next and that adds a level of tension not just to his performance, but also the film. Alice Eve also gives a strong performance as someone who simply wants a better life for her and her daughter, but is in far over her head. She is certainly easy on the eyes, but here she’s given an appropriately tired appearance here, or more natural, if you will. Regardless, she fits the role nicely. I remember her playing the “10” from the comedy She’s Out of My League. It’s almost hard to believe it’s the same person. I’d definitely recommend checking out this film. There’s an intriguing enough story and enough action to please fans of the genre. I’m not sure how much replay value it holds, but it’s worth seeing once, at least.
Video: How’s it look?
For a smaller film, the transfer looks quite nice. The image is AVC encoded with a 1.78:1 ratio displaying strong colors throughout. The print is free of dirt and other flaws. There is a bit of a darker look to the transfer, but I suspect this was intentional so it’s only repeating what’s necessary. Detail with facial features remained strong and Cranston’s facial hair had fine distinction. There are a few moments of bloodshed that are presented appropriately as well. It isn’t a flashy film by any means so don’t expect the image to be mind blowing, but it suits the film nicely and satisfies consistently.
Audio: How’s it sound?
The DTS HD track was also nice and solid. Vocals were accurate and well rendered and the rear channels kicked in when needed. There is a bit of action here and there and those scenes are handled well. As with the transfer, this isn’t a demo-worthy disc, but it suits the film just fine and really that’s all that can be asked for sometimes.
Supplements: What are the extras?
All we get here are some deleted scenes and previews, sadly.
- Deleted Scenes – Nothing too great, but there is an early alternate scene in a diner that’s worth checking out. The rest are just small extensions.
- Previews
