Jeremy Saulnier, known for his films such as Blue Ruin, Green Room, and Hold the Dark, has continued to excel in the realm of slow-burn action cinema. He skillfully builds anticipation rather than rushing into confrontations, which makes the violence in his films feel more impactful. His latest project, Rebel Ridge, now available on Netflix, exemplifies this approach as it follows a man desperately trying to avoid conflict, heightening the audience’s appetite for chaos.
Rebel Ridge features a classic Western premise, where a stranger finds himself ensnared in a web of corruption upon arriving in town. The protagonist, Terry Richmond, played by Aaron Pierre, is a former marine who is initially introduced cycling down a rural road until he encounters the local police, who arrest him under dubious circumstances. The officers confiscate a large amount of cash from him, intended for bailing his cousin out of jail. This cousin, previously a key witness in a murder trial, is about to be transferred to a state penitentiary where his life is in grave danger.
The situation grows increasingly frustrating for Terry, who has committed no offense yet faces brutality and theft of his money at the hands of the law—which he learns is all within their rights. The smugness of the officers, led by a laid-back chief portrayed by Don Johnson, amplifies his helplessness, despite Terry’s imposing physical presence.
Pierre’s eyes communicate depth and intellect, allowing viewers to see Terry actively assessing and planning his next move in a dire situation. The film cleverly portrays Terry’s abilities as primarily focused on de-escalating violence, creating a unique tension throughout. While it seems inevitable that he will eventually reach a breaking point, the narrative keeps the viewers on edge.
Traditional action films often neglect their plot devices once the action commences, but Rebel Ridge takes a different approach. It highlights the issues surrounding civil asset forfeiture while incorporating a character named Summer, played by AnnaSophia Robb, who provides legal insights and context. This element occasionally runs the risk of bogging down the dialogue in legal jargon, but the gripping central conflict maintains audience investment.
Saulnier expertly builds suspense and skillfully orchestrates chaos when it erupts. His precise camera movements and careful editing enhance the film’s intensity, establishing spatial awareness that allows for a dynamic visual experience during conflicts. Notably, while Rebel Ridge may not be overtly violent, the moments of physical conflict are particularly gratifying. Overall, the film stands out as both thought-provoking and exhilarating, showcasing a high level of craftsmanship that is rarely seen in streaming action films.