While true-crime documentaries are currently all the rage, serial killer thrillers like those Denzel Washington helped popularize in the 90’s have seemingly all but disappeared. Unfortunately, his appearance in this middling stab at the genre is unlikely to revitalize interest. Sent to collect some evidence from his old Los Angeles precinct, Joe Deacon (Washington) becomes embroiled in a hunt for a serial killer that may be connected to the unsolved case that led to his leaving the city. Everything is handsomely shot, and looks like it was made by people who know how to make a film, but a weak script and an odd casting decision prevent it from coming together. It feels like they were aiming to make a movie akin to Seven but without the gore or suspense; a feeling which is especially driven home by Jared Leto’s cringeworthy attempt at creating a memorable villain. It’s a passable way to fill a few hours, but nowhere near as good as its self-serious tone implies it thinks it is. ★★★ – Sean Farrell

Available in theaters and on HBO Max (through 2/28)

Coming soon on Blu-ray

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★★★★★ = Excellent | ★★★★ = Very Good | ★★★ = Good | ★★ = Fair | ★ = Poor