Cast
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Tom Hardy
as Bob
Noomi Rapace
as Nadia
James Gandolfini
as Cousin Marv
Matthias Schoenaerts
as Eric Deeds
John Ortiz
as Detective Torres
Ann Dowd
as Dottie
Michael Aronov
as Chovka
James Frecheville
as Fitz
Elizabeth Rodriguez
as Detective Romsey
Tobias Segal
as Briele
Michael Esper
as Rardy
Morgan Spector
as Andre
Ross Bickell
as Father Regan
Patricia Squire
as Millie
Chris Sullivan
as Jimmy
Crew
Director
- Michaël R. Roskam
Producer
- Peter Chernin
- Jenno Topping
Reviews
John Chard
Are you doing something desperate? Something we can't clean up this time?
The Drop is directed by Michael R. Roskam and written by Dennis Lehane, who adapts from his own short story titled Animal Rescue. It stars Tom Hardy, James Gandolfini, Noomi Rapace and Matthias Schoenaerts. Music is by Marco Beltrami and cinematography by Nicolas Karakatsanis.
Brooklyn barman Bob Saginowski (Hardy) spies an opportunity for a better life - but only if he can escape family ties, the crime that surrounds him and a dark past
It's arguably a tricky film to recommend with confidence given that it doesn't sit still in crime genre company. This is very much a character based story about a small handful of people affected by crime, where they are chained to events occurring by way of law breaking. Roskam is in no hurry what so ever to spin his picture's literary worth, very much favouring a slow burn - even low key - approach. He deftly develops atmosphere whilst simultaneously ensuring we the viewers are very much a part of the setting and situations - something Lehane does so brilliantly in his novels. By the time the pic plays its hand, what appeared at first to be needless complexities, are valid and close the piece down with some considerable success. 7.5/10
Feb 20, 2017
CinemaSerf
"Bob" (Tom Hardy) and his cousin "Marv" (James Gandolfini) run a bar that is regularly used for the anonymous drop - money paid to their Chechen landlords - and all goes fine until it is robbed. They are tasked with retrieving the money and are soon immersed in a cycle of gangland betrayal and deception that isn't helped by a police investigation into another murder, and the curious "Eric Deeds" (Matthias Schoenaerts) whose dog "Bob" has rescued from maltreatment. Nobody knows who to trust and director Michaël Roskam manages to use the talent at his disposal, alongside some effective lighting and a careful build up of the pace to help this better-than-average thriller work up to it's clever conclusion. Noomi Rapace ("Nadia") features only sparingly, and Hardy's accent maybe isn't the best - but the complexities of the plot as well as a reasonable attempt to develop the characterisations into people we cared a little about do help this stand out. Hardy shows us that he has the ability to deliver a slightly more multi-dimensional persona and this is a good watch with quite a quirky ending.
Apr 28, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Drop examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Michaël R. Roskam brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2014, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Drop took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $12.6 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 106 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The costume department created over 400 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 2014, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Drop shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ladies in Lavender, which focuses more on action than character development, The Drop offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Ricochet and The Fan explore similar territory, The Drop stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 12, 2014
- Runtime: 1h 46m
- Budget: $12,600,000
- Revenue: $19,054,534
Where to Watch
