HBO Max's 'The Little Things' promised a neo-noir thriller, and it delivered... something. While the performances by Denzel Washington, Rami Malek, and Jared Leto are undeniably captivating, the film itself feels like a collection of meticulously crafted puzzle pieces that never quite form a complete picture.
Washington's weary detective, haunted by his past, is a familiar but welcome archetype. Malek's ambitious younger cop provides a stark contrast, and Leto's unsettling performance as the prime suspect is genuinely chilling. The acting truly elevates the movie.
However, the film struggles with its pacing and plot. The investigation meanders, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. The ambiguity surrounding the central mystery, while perhaps intentional, ultimately feels frustrating. 'The Little Things' offers strong performances and a dark atmosphere, but its convoluted narrative prevents it from becoming a truly memorable thriller. It's worth watching for the acting alone, but don't expect a neatly wrapped conclusion.
