An absolute must-see on the big screen.

Rating: 10/10 (31 January 2010)

Kathryn Bigelow's opening sequence is, in every sense of the word, mesmerizing. If you want to know how to create tension and atmosphere then you could learn a thing or two from the first 15 minutes on offer here. Unfortunately the next two hours can't quite replicate its success, falling just short of capturing the same exhilarating levels that set the film in motion. It is still a tightly wound and uncompromising look at life as a bomb technician mind you; the depth afforded to the story drags us into SFC James' unfamiliar and peculiar world – but what an intriguing world it is – and we come out the other end with an understanding of what it takes, mentally and physically, for someone to do such a dangerous and meticulous job. It helps that Marco Beltrami's thumping and pulsating score reverberates through your body with every note and essentially acts as another character.
When Bigelow sticks with the things that go boom, Locker shows why many critics have scored it a chance to the win the big prize at the Academy Awards this year. Gripping is an understatement when describing the numerous tasks undertaken by our risky protagonist, however, there are a few subplots that Bigelow should have left on the cutting room floor, like an unnecessary search and kill assignment at the end of the middle act. It's these small narrative excesses that stop Locker from being an instant classic, instead you'll just have to settle for bloody fantastic.
Keep an eye out for Jeremy Renner in the future. You may recognize him as the bad guy from S.W.A.T. or seen glimpses of his talent as a supporting player in The Assassination of Jesse James and North Country, but this is his first bona fide chance to show his acting chops. A BAFTA and SAG nomination (and eight wins on the smaller awards circuit) later, Renner doesn't disappoint. His enigmatic and charismatic portrayal of a man forever on the edge, yet always with a casual attitude, is tremendous to witness; the intensity he possesses is electric on screen. Anthony Mackie deserves a mention too as he is impressive in the far less flashy role of the by-the-book SGT Sanborn; arguably providing the only constant throughout the picture which is easily identifiable and relatable.
A powerhouse performance by leading man Renner and assured direction from Bigelow make this an absolute must-see on the big screen.
4.5 out of 5 (1 - Rubbish, 2 - Ordinary, 3 - Good, 4 - Excellent, 5 - Classic)