Getting the scoop

Rating: 9/10 (21 April 2016)

The thing that I found most compelling about 'Nightcrawler' was not that it plays as an evil, Bizarro-world rags-to-riches success story, although that is part of its subversive appeal, certainly. Rather, Jake Gyllenhaal's absolutely riveting performance as the predatory, small-time hood turned news videographer is what sets this movie apart for me. It is a nuanced performance. Little things about his performance, from his mannerisms to odd turns of phrase emphasize that Louis Bloom is a stranger to normal human interaction. The way Bloom laughs at times when nothing is remotely funny is frankly chilling. The fact that one oddly admires Bloom's professionalism and perfectionism in his chosen avocation makes for an unsettling, if unforgettable movie experience.