Netflix has just added To Catch a Killer, a crime thriller that many people haven’t even heard of. This 2023 film didn’t make much noise upon its release, but now that it’s streaming on Netflix, it’s getting a second chance. If you love mystery, suspense, and a gripping investigation, this might be your next watch. But is it really worth your time?
Let’s break it down.
To Catch a Killer—Plot and Cast
The movie follows Eleanor Falco (Shailene Woodley), a sharp but troubled Baltimore police officer. She gets recruited by the FBI to help track down a sniper who went on a deadly shooting spree during a New Year’s Eve celebration.
Eleanor joins forces with lead FBI agent Geoffrey Lammark (Ben Mendelsohn) and fellow investigator Jack McKenzie (Jovan Adepo). As they hunt the mysterious killer, Eleanor’s dark past resurfaces, challenging her ability to focus on the case.
The story builds on tense investigation scenes, psychological struggles, and shocking turns. The film’s director, Damián Szifron, creates an intense atmosphere, drawing inspiration from classics like Seven and Prisoners.
How Does To Catch a Killer Compare to Other Thrillers?
The movie starts strong with a chilling opening sequence. A mysterious gunman fires on a rooftop party, leaving chaos in his wake. The tension is real, and the investigation that follows is gripping.
However, as the story unfolds, To Catch a Killer struggles with pacing. The first half keeps you on edge with smart storytelling and suspenseful moments. But in the second half, the film slows down with lengthy dialogues and unnecessary explanations. Instead of letting the mystery build naturally, characters explain their pasts and motivations too directly.
Despite this, Shailene Woodley delivers a standout performance. Known for her roles in Big Little Lies and Divergent, she plays against type here, bringing depth to Eleanor’s complex character. Ben Mendelsohn also impresses, adding weight to the investigation.
What Do Critics and Audiences Say?
The movie has received mixed reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 53% critic score, with reviews highlighting its stylish direction but criticizing the script for being too predictable. Meanwhile, the audience score sits at 62%, suggesting that while it’s not groundbreaking, many viewers still find it entertaining.
Some critics compare it to top-tier crime thrillers but agree that it lacks originality. Instead of breaking new ground, it follows familiar crime movie formulas.
Should You Watch To Catch a Killer on Netflix?
If you’re looking for a solid crime thriller with strong performances and engaging mystery, To Catch a Killer is worth a watch. It may not reach the heights of Seven or Zodiac, but it delivers enough suspense to keep you entertained.
Netflix has a history of reviving overlooked films, and this one is already gaining traction on the platform. If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers and detective stories, give it a shot—but keep your expectations in check.
