thriller

Control is a masterpiece of mixed-medium storytelling, blending everything from live-action monologues to puppet shows to rock albums in one indelible, high-velocity thriller. But more than for the exceeding weirdness of the Oldest House, the high-quality acting performances, or the polished gunplay and paranatural combat, Control should be played for its ambitious artistry and the staggering efforts of its creative team. 9 / 10.

This story of espionage in the midst of the Cold War has the premise and cast to be phenomenal, but ends up as dull and bleak as the color tones the film is washed in. Unfortunately, as the fog clears and the secrets of the clandestine become known, I couldn’t shake the feeling that the truth wasn’t worth the intrigue. 4 / 10.