Hidden Agenda

A good go at a gritty character driven crime drama, there are a few colour grading and sound issues but at ninety-one minutes long it isn't a chore to watch. Hernke takes the lead well and drives the story forward.

Good movie to watch for especially taking the footsteps of David Fincher movies the movie has some remarkable scenes.

When you've been a desk jockey for so long it has to be hard to get out on the street to find a serial killer who does nothing but taunt you at every turn. This is the case for Detective Mathews and as he gets sucked deeper and deeper into the investigation he begins to unravel to the point of self destruction of his entire life. His wife has had enough of his drinking and never being home and even when he is home its like he isn't there because his head is focused only on his case and nothing more. Hans Hernke's portrayal of Detective Matthews is what holds this movie together. His performance is dark and gritty and what independent film making is all about. A cat and mouse detective story that delivers the goods.

Its clear from the off that Warren's film is inspired by the like of David Fincher, hoping to weave a tight, emotional and tense serial killer story that would take an audience on one hell of a journey.

Whilst the film has some good ideas, it unfortunately falls short on most of its goals.

The film unfortunately doesn't look great, often out of focus and unimaginative in it's cinematography. But every now and then there is a flair or flourish peeping through. The odd shot that does a perfect job of telling the story well.

The performances are generally flat with the exception of the detective who manages to create a fairly 3 dimensional and the reporter who gives a brave and venerable performance through out the film.

The story chugs along, ticking the cliché boxes and doing everything you'd expect it too and then every now and then it manages to pull the rug from underneath you with genuine twists I didn't see coming.

Overall Hidden Agenda isn't the worst indie flick I've seen, it has it's moments but I do feel like the film makers have better in them. I look forward to seeing what they come up with next.

"Hidden Agendas" is a gritty crime drama that centers on a detective who must solve a kidnapping case while seemingly both his professional and personal life are crumbling around him. Hans Henke plays the lead role of Detective Matthews and does a good job portraying the different dynamics of a complicated character nearing the end of his rope. In one particular drunken scene his dialogue to his wife is almost frightening as his character does a complete 180 in personality. Valin Brenwen who plays the main antagonist gives a haunting performance reminiscent of horror film psycho rather than the villain of a crime drama. His portrayal of the creepy suspect is a welcoming change in tone at times in the film. Cameron Bigelow as the young detective brings teen idol looks to the otherwise older male dominant cast. The dynamic between he and Henke make for an interesting teacher/apprentice relationship. Real acting chops are shown by Adam Barnett who plays the Chief of Police. A performance worthy of a seasoned pro, his character really grounds the film in reality. The only deterrence of the acting ensemble are the female counter parts. I wouldn't necessarily blame the actresses as the characters seemed one note, without much for the artists to work with. I wish stronger, individual female characters were present as a few of the leading characters seem like the same individual and caricatures of other films.

All in all I recommend the film to anyone looking for an interesting crime drama. The backdrop of Miami is a welcoming setting of the film which almost serves as a character itself. The transition scenes add production value to the obviously independent film.

With a running time of less than 90 minutes viewing this film is not a chore at all for its audience who may opt to watch it just to pick out a few possible acting stars of the future.