movie rec: Searching (2018)

[sasha_feather]

Searching is an unusual thriller starring John Cho. It is shot from the point of view of computer screens, smart phones, and security cameras, creating a screen-within-a-screen effect. At times this feels distant, and at times claustrophobic. It's a novel approach to making a film.

Cho plays David Kim, a father whose teenage daughter disappears. Along with a local detective (Debra Messing), he begins to search for his daughter Margot, looking mostly at her digital footprint. He examines social media, uses Google Maps, and discovers that Margot had a "you stream" channel (like youtube). This was extremely well exectued. The writing and pacing are smart and there are some unexpected twists.

Content notes are minor: Marijuana use; a character that dies from cancer. Some gripping, scary bits but nothing graphic.

Recommended!

Comments

[jesse_the_k]

Ooooh, that sounds wonderful.

Movie-movie, or best watched on a computer screen?

[sasha_feather]

We saw it in the theater. It would be an interesting meta experience watching it on a computer screen!

[lilysea]

Thank you for the content notes!

I <3 John Cho, but I was worried

- someone might get tortured

- someone might get murdered

[sasha_feather]

Someone does get murdered in this film, but it is not shown on screen, and it is a minor character that I had no emotional investment in. Also, the killer is brought to justice.

[melita66]

Sorry; drive-by. How is Debra Messing? I've had trouble liking her in comedic/dramedy mode like Will & Grace and The Starter Wife.

[sasha_feather]

This movie is strictly drama/thriller with no comedy, except perhaps very dry unintentional comedy. I barely recognized Debra Messing. I haven't watched her shows, though.