Unfairly maligned serial killer mystery with a Russian backdrop

Rating: 6/10 (20 December 2016)

Despite the multitude of negative reviews floating around the Internet, I thought CHILD 44 was a solid mix of the drama and thriller genres. The post-war Russian setting alone makes it worth watching and there's nothing wrong at all with the Russian accents which some commentators seem to moan on and on about. I'd rather this than seeing certain actors playing roles and not even attempting the accent, like Tom Cruise in VALKYRIE.
The story is based on a novel about a series of child killings taking place in Soviet Russia and the efforts of a top-ranking policeman to track down the serial killer responsible. The real star of the show is Daniel Espinosa, who previously made EASY MONEY and who brings the same level of stark beauty to his production here. The cinematography is excellent and brings the various action and dramatic set-pieces to life in a unique way. In addition, CHILD 44 boasts a fine ensemble cast to be enjoyed. Tom Hardy is the solid lead and the likes of Gary Oldman, Vincent Cassel, Jason Clarke, and Noomi Rapace bring fine support, with the scene-stealing Joel Kinnaman re-teaming with Espinosa after EASY MONEY.