A young law student, grieving for his dying mother, struggles to decide whether he should kill his unfaithful step-father.
Detour (2017) is a neo-noir thriller directed by Christopher Smith, featuring Tye Sheridan as Harper, a law student whose mother is critically injured in a car accident. Believing his wealthy stepfather, Vincent (Stephen Moyer), is responsible, Harper seeks revenge. He hires Johnny Ray (Emory Cohen), a criminal with a violent reputation, to kill Vincent. As the narrative unfolds, Harper’s plan spirals out of control, leading to unforeseen consequences.
The film employs a non-linear storytelling technique, presenting events from multiple perspectives and timelines. This approach challenges the audience to question the reliability of the characters and the nature of truth. The narrative structure is reminiscent of classic film noir, with its intricate plotting and morally ambiguous characters. However, some critics have noted that the film’s style occasionally overshadows its substance, leading to a sense of detachment from the characters’ emotional journeys.
Main Themes
- Morality and Consequences
Detour explores the moral complexities of seeking vengeance. Harper’s decision to hire a criminal to kill his stepfather sets off a chain of events that he cannot control, highlighting the unpredictable nature of human actions and their repercussions. The film delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals when they take justice into their own hands, questioning the righteousness of such decisions.
- Perception vs. Reality
The film’s non-linear narrative structure emphasizes the theme of perception versus reality. By presenting events from different viewpoints, it challenges the audience to discern the truth, reflecting on how personal biases and limited information can distort one’s understanding of events. This theme encourages viewers to question the reliability of their perceptions and the nature of truth itself.
- Fate and Free Will
Detour examines the tension between fate and free will, portraying characters who believe they can control their destinies through their choices. However, the unfolding events suggest that their paths are influenced by forces beyond their control, prompting reflection on the extent to which individuals can shape their futures. This theme invites viewers to consider the role of destiny in their own lives.
- Isolation and Alienation
The film portrays characters who are isolated, either physically or emotionally, leading to feelings of alienation. Harper’s internal struggles and his interactions with others highlight the human desire for connection and the consequences of its absence. This theme resonates with audiences, reflecting the universal experience of loneliness and the search for meaning.
- Trust and Betrayal
Trust is a central theme in Detour, with characters grappling with whom they can rely on. Harper’s decision to trust Johnny Ray leads to betrayal, underscoring the dangers of misplaced trust and the complexities of human relationships. The film explores how betrayal can stem from both external actions and internal decisions, adding depth to its narrative.
Impact of the Movie
Detour has received mixed reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 63% approval rating based on 32 reviews, with an average rating of 6/10.
Metacritic assigns the film a score of 46 out of 100, indicating mixed or average reviews.
Critics have praised the film’s stylish direction and complex narrative structure, noting its homage to classic film noir. However, some have criticized its convoluted plot and the overshadowing of character development by its stylistic choices.
7 Reasons to Watch Detour (2017)
- Intricate Narrative Structure
- Detour’s non-linear storytelling keeps viewers engaged, as the film unfolds from multiple perspectives and timelines. This complexity challenges the audience to piece together the narrative, offering a rewarding experience for those who appreciate intricate plots.
- The film’s structure encourages active viewing, prompting audiences to question the reliability of the characters and the nature of truth. This engagement enhances the overall cinematic experience, making it more interactive and thought-provoking.
- Stylish Direction
- Christopher Smith’s direction pays homage to classic film noir, with its moody cinematography and atmospheric settings. The visual style enhances the film’s themes and mood, immersing viewers in its world.
- The director’s use of visual cues and symbolism adds depth to the narrative, allowing for multiple interpretations. This artistic approach elevates the film beyond a standard thriller, making it a compelling watch for cinephiles.
- Strong Performances
- Tye Sheridan delivers a compelling portrayal of Harper, capturing the character’s internal conflict and moral dilemmas. His performance anchors the film, making Harper’s journey both relatable and engaging.
- Supporting actors, including Emory Cohen and Bel Powley, provide nuanced performances that add complexity to the narrative. Their portrayals enrich the film’s character dynamics, making the story more engaging.
- Exploration of Complex Themes
- Detour delves into themes such as morality, perception, fate, and trust, offering a thought-provoking narrative that goes beyond traditional thriller tropes. The film encourages viewers to reflect on these themes, adding depth to the viewing experience.
- The exploration of these themes adds layers to the story, making it more than just a suspenseful thriller. It invites audiences to engage with the material on a deeper level, fostering a more meaningful connection with the film.
- Engaging Cinematography
- The film’s cinematography effectively conveys the mood and themes, using lighting and composition to enhance the storytelling. The visual style complements the narrative, creating a cohesive and immersive experience.
- The use of visual motifs and symbolism adds layers of meaning to the film, enhancing its psychological depth. The cinematography, with its sharp contrasts and moody lighting, helps to establish the tension and uncertainty that permeate the story. This visual storytelling invites viewers to interpret the narrative on a deeper level.
- Psychological Tension
- The film’s exploration of Harper’s mental state and his growing obsession with revenge creates a palpable sense of psychological tension. The story forces the audience to question whether Harper’s perception of events is reliable, blurring the line between reality and paranoia.
- As Harper’s decisions spiral out of control, the tension builds to an intense climax, keeping viewers on edge throughout the film. This psychological tension adds a layer of suspense that makes the narrative more engaging, as it challenges the audience to understand what is truly happening versus what Harper believes is happening.
- Unpredictable Plot Twists
- Detour is filled with unexpected twists and turns, which keeps the audience guessing until the very end. The film constantly shifts perspectives and plays with narrative structure, making it difficult to predict where the story will go next.
- The unpredictable nature of the plot ensures that the film remains captivating from start to finish. Each twist adds a new layer of complexity to the story, ensuring that viewers remain invested in the outcome, even as the characters’ fates become increasingly uncertain.
How Will You Feel After Watching Detour (2017)?
After watching Detour, you will likely feel a sense of unease and contemplation. The film’s complex narrative structure and psychological depth may leave you questioning the reliability of your own perceptions and the consequences of your actions. The moral ambiguity of the characters, especially Harper, might make you reflect on the choices you would make in similar situations. The film’s unpredictable twists and suspenseful atmosphere will likely keep you on edge, leaving you with lingering thoughts about the nature of truth, revenge, and fate.
The psychological tension throughout the movie may make you feel unsettled, particularly as the story challenges your understanding of what is real and what is merely a product of the characters’ troubled minds. As the film concludes, you may find yourself replaying key moments in your head, trying to piece together the truth of the narrative. Ultimately, Detour is a film that stays with you, encouraging deep reflection on the themes of morality, fate, and the consequences of human actions long after the credits roll.
