Unraveling a Postcard Mystery: A Review of "The Postcard Killings" (2020)


 "The Postcard Killings" is a 2020 crime film based on the 2010 novel by James Patterson and Liza Marklund, and directed by Danis Tanović. Starring Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Famke Janssen, and Cush Jumbo, the movie revolves around a New York City detective, Jacob Kanon, who investigates the gruesome murder of his daughter during her honeymoon in London. Enlisting the help of a Scandinavian journalist, the duo sets out to uncover the truth behind a series of heinous crimes.


The film kicks off with a gripping premise, drawing viewers into the dark and intricate world of a serial killer who taunts the police with postcards sent from various European cities. Jeffrey Dean Morgan delivers a compelling performance as Jacob Kanon, embodying the grief-stricken father determined to bring justice to his daughter's tragic death. Famke Janssen and Cush Jumbo also add depth to their characters, contributing to the overall chemistry of the cast.


The first half of the movie is a masterfully crafted mystery, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats as the detectives piece together the clues. The cinematography beautifully captures the European settings, enhancing the film's atmospheric tone. The collaboration between the New York detective and the Scandinavian journalist adds an interesting dynamic, creating a unique investigative partnership.


However, the film experiences a slight dip in pacing after the revelation of the killers. The tension built up in the first half loses some momentum, and the narrative struggles to maintain the same level of suspense. While the initial mystery is well thought out, the execution of the latter part of the plot could have been more polished.


The ending, unfortunately, falls short of the film's promising start. Jacob Kanon makes some out-of-character choices that may leave the audience questioning the consistency of the character development. The resolution feels somewhat rushed, and the impact of the climax is diminished, leaving viewers with a sense of disappointment.


Despite these shortcomings, "The Postcard Killings" remains an engaging watch, particularly for fans of crime mysteries. The strong performances by the cast and the captivating premise make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a gripping thriller. The film's availability on Amazon Prime Video provides easy access for viewers looking to immerse themselves in a well-crafted, albeit flawed, crime drama. Overall, while the movie may not achieve perfection, it successfully delivers a satisfying mystery that is enjoyable for those willing to overlook its minor shortcomings.

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