Edinburgh crime thriller features Samuel L Jackson in serial killer hunt

In a new crime thriller set in Edinburgh, a grisly murder kicks off the plot, featuring a woman who is dismembered by a hooded assailant. The film stars Samuel L. Jackson, Gianni Capaldi, and Vincent Cassel, who form an unlikely trio of detectives on the hunt for the serial killer. The narrative unfolds with Jackson's character expressing frustration over the killer's use of cult-like elements in the murders, which are depicted with a mix of horror and absurdity. The police procedural aspect of the film is critiqued, particularly the main cop's discovery of a key that does not fit any locks in the victim's flat, highlighting the film's reliance on questionable investigative techniques. This element adds to the film's so-bad-it's-good charm, as it attempts to emulate the serious tone of 90s thrillers like Se7en. Despite the film's absurdity, it aims for sincerity, with the actors delivering committed performances that elevate the material. The film does not lean into self-awareness or irony, instead striving to present a straightforward narrative that engages with the tropes of the genre. Ultimately, while the film may not achieve the heights of its inspirations, it offers a unique blend of horror and humor, making it a noteworthy entry in the so-bad-it's-good category. Viewers may find it entertaining for its earnest approach to a familiar storyline, even if the execution leaves much to be desired.