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Hacker
2016 95 min Canada, Kazakhstan, Hong Kong, Thailand, United States of America R 18+
★5.9
Crime, Drama, Thriller
Director: Akan Satayev
Trailers
Description
Alex, an immigrant from Ukraine comes to Canada and becomes involved with an online criminal organization called Darkweb. What starts off as a way to help his parents financially, soon becomes a personal vendetta against the entire banking system, when his mother is fired from her job at the bank
Budget:
$2M
US Gross:
$11,239
Worldwide:
$11,239
Starring
Callan McAuliffe
Actor
Lorraine Nicholson
Actor
Daniel Eric Gold
Actor
Key opinion
Michael Mann's 'Blackhat' is a polarizing work that divides audiences between those who appreciate its hyper-realistic, stylistic aesthetic and those who find its screenplay and pacing deeply flawed. While the film is praised for its technical craftsmanship and unconventional approach to the thriller genre, many critics point to a weak, illogical plot and poor character development as significant barriers to entry.
| Cinematography | The hyper-realistic, gritty cinematography—characterized by extreme close-ups and a naturalistic gray palette—is hailed as a technical triumph by proponents, though detractors find the handheld, high-frame-rate aesthetic distracting and irritably shaky. | |
| Acting | Opinions on Chris Hemsworth's performance are split: some find his physically imposing, laconic portrayal of a hacker perfectly suited to Mann's directorial style, while others dismiss the casting as a mismatch that fails to convey genuine technical expertise. | |
| Screenplay | The screenplay is widely criticized for being weak, relying on illogical plot twists, underdeveloped antagonist motives, and a lack of narrative tension that ultimately compromises the film's potential. | |
| Pacing | The film's extended runtime and contemplative, procedural tempo alienate mainstream viewers seeking a high-octane thriller, though it is viewed as a rewarding experience for dedicated fans of Michael Mann’s previous works. | |
| Score | The score, blending work by Danny Elfman and Atticus Ross, is lauded by some for being atmospherically harmonious and innovative, while others argue it is either too generic or failing to effectively support the film's tone. |