An all-time great performance from Mr. Gyllenhaal, and an all time great satirical thriller.

Rating: 9/10 (16 November 2014)

Nightcrawler is among the most impressive directorial debuts I have ever seen. A razor sharp screenplay from writer/director Dan Gilroy, combining sharp and precise satire with a unique character in Louis Bloom. This character in particular is the film's primary draw, both in terms of performance and writing.
Jake Gyllenhaal is spectacular as Bloom. His weight loss gives his face a ghoulish quality, and his huge eyes evoke an owl, constantly watching and calculating, purely in visual terms, Gyllenhall delivers a knockout blow. This ghoulish quality mirrors the characters complex, but undoubtedly deplorable, personality. A- moral, manipulative and megalomaniacal slime-ball at heart, Gyllenhaal also manages to add pathos and relatability to a character who would be totally unsympathetic in lesser hands. I do not wish to spoil this performance any further, other than to say it is one of the best all year and is entirely due to the commitment of the incredible actor at the helm, along with a top notch script.
The other performances also deserve praise. Paxton is fun as always, a hugely underrated actor in my opinion. Riz Ahmed delivers a highly likable and naturalistic performance, managing to keep pace with Gyllenhaal in even the most intense sequences. I have high hopes for this young actor in future supporting roles. Above both of these performances however stands Rene Russo, delivering an intense and densely satirical portrayal of the manipulators of the media. It evokes Faye Dunaway from 'Network' and is a very well delivered supporting role.
The screenplay itself is spectacular, probably one of the best in recent years. Every dialogue exchange is memorable and layered, with the excellent cast delivering the dialogue perfectly. It blends character, satire of the media, and thriller-ish elements wonderfully and feels complete and well thought out.The pacing of the film is also very strong, slowly building in complexity and instability, much like it's main character, however some may find the conclusion slightly jarring.
Aside the acting and the screenplay, the camera-work is also great, utilising the subject matter, TV news footage, to deliver some wonderful visually unique sequences and shots. The lighting in particular was fantastic, emphasising shadows and the natural lights found in a city like L.A., giving the film a unique visual flavour and echoing the shady subject of the film.
Overall, this film was amazing. I demand accolades for Gyllenhaal, and I hope this slick satire is recognised for what it is.