North Washington county sheriff Tabby finds herself alone in the sheriff’s office one night while her colleagues are out on patrol, but she soon finds out they’ve been set up by a murderous drug cartel while she herself comes under siege at the office, where she must battle desperately to save herself and her son.
Jericho Ridge – Film Review
Published July 19, 2023
Movie Details
The most striking aspect of Jericho Ridge is its surprisingly cozy and comforting ambiance, which contrasts with the intense and thrilling storyline. The majority of the movie is confined to the extremely small police station in a quaint town, where the sense of community is palpable. This setting adds a unique dimension to the claustrophobic thriller, making it more emotionally engaging and allowing the audience to connect deeply with the characters.
Nikki Amuka-Bird‘s lead performance as Sheriff Tabby is nothing short of incredible. Her portrayal is a masterclass in balancing intimidation and vulnerability. Having previously impressed audiences in M. Night Shyamalan‘s film Old, Amuka-Bird’s performance in Jericho Ridge further solidifies her talent as a versatile and captivating actor. Through her character, we experience a rollercoaster of emotions that range from fear to determination, making Sheriff Tabby the film’s emotional anchor.
The cinematography and visuals in Jericho Ridge are top-notch. Ruairí O’Brien‘s camerawork is commendable, capturing the confined spaces and tension with precision. The small-town atmosphere is brought to life with vivid attention to detail, adding to the immersive experience of the film. The visuals serve as a crucial element in building suspense and amplifying the feeling of being trapped with the characters.
Despite its strengths, Jericho Ridge suffers from a notable pacing issue. With a runtime of just under ninety minutes, the film moves at a breakneck speed, rarely giving the audience a chance to catch their breath. While this contributes to the sense of urgency, it also hampers character development and emotional resonance. Some key moments and interactions could have benefitted from a slower pace to allow the audience to connect more deeply with the characters.
One character that stands out as a negative aspect of the film is Monty, portrayed by Zack Morris. While Morris delivers a competent performance, Monty’s personality is irksome and likely to grate on audiences’ nerves. This character feels like a discordant note in an otherwise well-orchestrated symphony, hindering the film’s overall impact.
Nevertheless, Jericho Ridge is a wonderfully crafted thriller that manages to captivate and engage its audience despite its pacing issues. The gripping storyline, combined with Nikki Amuka-Bird’s compelling performance and stunning cinematography, make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre. The film successfully keeps viewers invested in the characters’ plight and holds their attention with its relentless tension.
It presents a gripping narrative set in an unexpectedly cozy environment, making it a unique and captivating thriller. Nikki Amuka-Bird’s powerful performance as Sheriff Tabby and the film’s stunning visuals elevate the viewing experience. Although the pacing could have been better to allow for more character development, the film’s overall strengths overshadow this flaw. Despite an annoying character in the mix, Jericho Ridge succeeds in delivering an intense and emotionally charged cinematic journey that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.