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Cleaner
2007 88 min United States of America R 18+
★5.5
Crime, Thriller, Mystery
Director: Renny Harlin
Trailers
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EN
Description
Single father and former cop Tom Cutler has an unusual occupation: he cleans up death scenes. But when he's called in to sterilize a wealthy suburban residence after a brutal shooting, Cutler is shocked to learn he may have unknowingly erased crucial evidence, entangling himself in a dirty criminal cover-up.
Budget:
$25M
Worldwide:
$5.8M
Starring
Samuel L. Jackson
Actor
Ed Harris
Actor
Eva Mendes
Actor
Awards
1 nomination total
Key opinion
Cleaner is widely regarded as a serviceable but underwhelming detective thriller that relies heavily on its star-studded cast to elevate a mediocre script. While its unique premise regarding crime-scene cleanup receives praise, the film’s tendency to descend into predictable genre tropes divides viewers between those who enjoy its restrained, old-school atmosphere and those who find it slow and unoriginal.
| Acting | Samuel L. Jackson delivers a grounded, authoritative performance that serves as the film's primary anchor. | |
| Originality | The premise of a specialized crime-scene cleaner offers an intriguing and unique hook for a detective mystery. | |
| Acting | Eva Mendes’ performance is frequently criticized as being limited to superficial attractiveness, failing to capture the necessary emotional weight. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay is widely viewed as relying on banal detective clichés and a predictable plot trajectory that lacks significant surprises. | |
| Pacing | Opinions on pacing are divided; some appreciate the deliberate, dialogue-driven tempo, while others find the film sluggish and devoid of necessary momentum. | |
| Direction | Renny Harlin's direction draws polarized reactions, oscillating between those who admire the restrained, classic approach and those who feel it lacks visual identity or genre-appropriate tension. |