Hey hey, it’s Monday! That can only mean one thing… it’s time for another installment of Review Stew! This week we’re taking a look at the difference between what you believe and what you know with… Spinning Man (2018).
Title: Spinning Man
Director: Simon Kaijser
Released: April 6, 2018 (Theatrical – Sweden and USA, Digital – Poland, Physical – Spain)
Runtime: 1 hour 40 minutes
Available to stream on: Kanopy and Tubi
Joyce Bonner’s (Odeya Rush) disappearance from the local beach has shaken her community. Unfortunately for professor Evan Birch (Guy Pearce), there is some rather flimsy evidence that place Joyce’s last moments vaguely in the same area as him. Because of this, and not much else, Detective Malloy (Pierce Brosnan) pins Birch as the primary person of interest.
Evan’s wife, Ellen (Minnie Driver) is beside herself when she learns her husband is the focal point of this girl’s disappearance. Especially since their recent move away from Evanston was supposed to be a fresh start. You see, back in Evanston, Birch was involved in an affair with a student. Because of his past transgressions, Ellen isn’t sure what to believe at this point.
While yes, the evidence against him is circumstantial at best, Evan doesn’t do himself any favors when questioned by Malloy. Evan is continuously evasive, standoffish, and conveniently has issues in remembering specific events. Taking all of this into account, Malloy is convinced that Evan knows more than he’s leading on.
As the investigation continues, Evan begins to second-guess himself.
Had he seen Joyce Bonner around town?
Wait, was it her that he gave a ride to that one time?
Spinning Man (2018) has an incredible cast, that goes without saying. And you know what, I was digging the premise as well. I figured, if nothing else, the cast of Pearce, Brosnan, and Driver could carry the movie by themselves.
Well, in a way that is kind of true. Though, at times, they each feel like they’re forcefully holding back. This rings especially true for Minnie Driver. There are a few scenes where she seems to just be on auto-pilot. By no means is this a knock on her, instead I feel it is an issue with the dialogue.
In addition to the dialogue, there are some glaring pacing issues. Having an active investigation as the story’s focal point should make for a riveting thriller. While we wind up with some intriguing tension building, things devolve into a slow slog to the finish line, leaving a lot to be desired.
Which is a shame, because the one thing that Spinning Man (2018) does well is build up tension. The dark tones, muted lighting, and frequent camera cuts keep us as confused as Evan Birch.
Is this one that I’d recommend you rush to seek out? Unfortunately not.
Though if you’re killing time and want something to watch, Spinning Man (2018) is far from the worst option.
Well, now it’s your turn. Have you seen Spinning Man (2018)?
If so, leave a comment below or reach out on Bluesky and tell me what you thought of it!
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