Building a steady movie career over the last decade, Dwayne Johnson must be one of the most successful wrestlers-turned-actors ever. Where Roddy Piper and Hulk Hogan have failed, he has succeeded. It helps he has slowly shifted away from the ‘hulking villain’ of earlier roles into more substantial ones. His films still aren’t high art but they have shown his determination to broaden his horizons. His latest aids in extending his shelf-life as a reliable leading man who has shown more talent than the wrestling ring allowed.
When his son is sent to jail after a drug raid, John (Dwayne Johnson) attempts to set him free. Contacted by Cooper (Barry Pepper), an agent leading an anti-drug taskforce, John is given a proposition. He has to immerse himself in the dangerous world of drug baron Carlos (Benjamin Bratt). Tasked with setting him up in a sting operation, John’s eagerness to see his son safe rises above the dangers he faces.
More drama than action movie Snitch is a reasonably solid effort. Johnson equips himself well as a father willing to do anything for his family. He effectively conveys his character’s frustrations with the political red-tape and laws concerning drug traffickers. Ric Roman Waugh’s direction maintains a brisk pace although often at the expense of other characters. The almost sole concentration on the central character somewhat devalues the story’s impact with John’s family-life only minimally explored.
Snitch maintains a gritty atmosphere due to some striking cinematography. The unpleasant world in which John reluctantly involves himself is evoked with harsh tones and grimy tension. The standard of the mood isn’t quite matched by a script lacking the substance the material demands. The abrupt conclusion doesn’t help although the general intent is there. It’s a case of the ideas being sound but the execution faltering even if it maintains interest overall.
Dwayne Johnson should be pleased with his efforts with Snitch. Although not perfect it gives him a chance to do something different and is a more thoughtful project than the block-busters on which he has made his name.
Patrick Moore
Rating out of 10: 6
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