Slant

Slant (2022) is an underrated gem-a darkly comic neo-noir that thrives on sharp dialogue, witty banter, and a distinctly Australian sensibility. Cleverly written and full of biting humor, the film balances a genuinely intriguing mystery with a satirical take on journalism, media culture, and the self-absorbed world of 1990s Melbourne society.

At its core, Slant follows a journalist investigating the disappearance of a socialite, but the mystery is just the foundation for a much richer experience. The screenplay is fast-paced, clever, and effortlessly funny, filled with intelligent wordplay and sharp social observations. The main actor delivers a performance that is both interesting and intelligent, bringing the lead character to life with a mix of charm, wit, and self-awareness that makes every scene engaging.

What Works:

✔ Exceptional Writing & Dialogue - The script is razor-sharp, packed with brilliant, dry humor, and filled with witty, quickfire exchanges that keep the story moving.

✔ A Unique Blend of Mystery & Comedy - If you enjoy mystery films that don't take themselves too seriously while still delivering intrigue (think The Nice Guys meets Kiss Kiss Bang Bang with an Aussie edge), this is for you.

✔ Engaging, Intelligent Lead Performance - The main actor is captivating, charismatic, and intellectually sharp, carrying the film with ease and keeping the audience invested.

✔ Atmospheric & Stylish - The Melbourne setting is captured in a way that feels both nostalgic and cinematic, adding to the film's offbeat charm.

✔ Unpredictable Storytelling - Keeps you hooked with its mix of quirky character interactions, satire, and genuine suspense.

Minor Drawbacks:

➖ Not a Traditional Noir - If you're expecting a hard-boiled, brooding mystery, Slant is lighter and more self-aware than something like L. A. Confidential.

➖ Humor May Not Work for Everyone - It leans into dry, sarcastic humor, so if that's not your style, some of the dialogue might feel too smug.

Final Verdict:

If you love smartly written, dialogue-driven films with a satirical edge, Slant is a must-watch. It's a rare mix of mystery, humor, and cultural critique that keeps you entertained from start to finish. The lead actor's intriguing, intelligent performance adds an extra layer of depth, making the film as compelling as it is sharp-witted.

Highly recommended for fans of witty neo-noirs, fast-paced dialogue, and genre-bending mysteries.

There's so much to love here! Firstly the creative team clearly knows their cast strengths and plays I to them delightfully. I could watch Sigrid read dramatic heartfelt monologues for hours on end.

Secondly I was Almost shocked when the movie ended and there were only two songs used apart from the original scores which is such a testament that it never felt stale or lacking (the two songs used were such bops!) Despite a smaller budget movie it never feels like they settled for less in the quality they produced like some low budget films you see littered on streaming platforms. This is a film many different film fans could enjoy.

It has a fun quirky mystery akin to knives out series with a campy horror film vibe and just a touch of touch of family drama just bloody enough yet not so gory that I couldn't easily recommend.

It is clear this was a labour of love and not made merely to make a movie.

Hate how you have to give this over 600 words.. It doesn't even deserve 600 words..

The amount of good things I heard about this and how it was so hyped up during the festivals and even on instagram and how it took the festivals "by storm" who did actually enjoy it? Because I know it wasn't me, that is for sure.

It needs the speed up feature to be watched because it is so slow in places and so over the top.

The only decent actor in this is Sigrid Thornton and then she is too over the top for this, her monologue during one scene was the only good part of this, someone please apologise to Sigird.

You can skip this one, find something a bit more fast paced or with a speed up option.

This is a dark comedy that is quite original and unique.

The story is a little off kilter and hard to follow due to it being too complex, erratic, and convoluted.

But there is hope for this, it has a brilliant cast of great actors especially Sigrid Thornton who is a force in this film with a great ensemble witty cast like Pia Miranda. There are brilliant locations, production design, grading, hair and makeup (except the fake beard at the end) and really good music score.

This film is very ambitious with some great dialogue, and many genres in a mixed bag, drama, comedy, murder-mystery-esque film.

If you want something different to watch - Check this out I feel this will possibly be nominated or sweep the AACTA AWARDS - You heard it here first - 15th October 2023.

Overall great execution of a so-so storyline and great overall direction.

A bold, gripping, darkly comedic film that captures a wonderful spectrum of humanity that is relatable on some levels, and weirdly whacky in its dissection of a dysfunctional family.

I love the detailed 90s references, the richness of the characters (their blind ambitions, their private hopes, their bizarre dreams, their sordid secrets), and unpredictable plot twists when least expected. Sometimes we find meanings and depths in a film that mirrors an aspect of who we are, also stumbling through life to find our grander selves.

This is a well produced independent Australian film that should be screened in all Cinemas to highlight the incredible talents in Australia.