Film Review #8

           End of Watch is an adrenaline-filled film that examines the rise of two police officers as they protect and serve in South Central Los Angeles. Jake Gyllenhaal and Michael Peña star in the ultra-violent flick. From the previews alone you can’t help but notice the intense violence that occurs. Writer-director David Ayer offers more than ferocity however. Between the action-packed scenes we are exposed to glimpses of the human side of the ‘thin blue line’. The film observes issues of popular culture, camaraderie, family, and the consequences of performing such a perilous job.

The plot of the film is modest. End of Watch focuses on hotshot police officers Brian Taylor (Gyllenhaal) and Mike Zavala (Peña). Both officers work for the Los Angeles Police Department and patrol some of the roughest neighborhoods in South Central L.A. They see more action before lunchtime than most cops do their entire careers! A routine house check prompts the discovery of human trafficking as well as illegal drugs and firearms. The officers receive high praise for the detecting such serious crime. However, the discovery unknowingly makes both men prime targets for a powerful Mexican cartel. The suspense ensues as Taylor and Zavala scratch and claw to stay alive.

Memorable & Authentic Performances

Gyllenhaal and Peña give superb performances- especially when the two are together onscreen. They do a superb job of displaying the camaraderie that develops between partners serving as police officers. Their portrayals show us that at the end of the day, the police are just like you and I. Like everyone else they encounter professional, personal, and psychological issues. The only difference is that they have to protect themselves with a tough exterior when they put on the badge. Natalie Martinez and Anna Kendrick deserve praise for their roles as the significant others of both officers. They helped add so much depth. A police officer doesn’t make decisions that just affect themselves. Their loved ones are affected profoundly as well. Emotionally, I was expecting very little from this film. Needless to say, my expectations were more than fulfilled… and then some!

The director’s use of lighting is significant in this film. The night scenes prominently display darkness and shadows. This created an aura of danger, confusion, and grittiness. The point of view shot was used in one of two ways. The method was used partly to create a sense of intensity. It is noticeable during car chases, brawls, and shootouts. It was also used when certain characters in the movie were recording themselves on camcorders. The music in the film is a mixture of popular rap & rock songs and intense instrumentals- perfect for adding to an already exhilarating scene. The film techniques and the music enhance the setting and themes of the film tenfold.

I would recommend End of Watch for so many reasons! My decisive factor has to be the script. The dialogue between Gyllenhaal and Peña is priceless. That should come as no surprise. The director penned the script for Training Day! I bought into these characters almost immediately. The depth from each one leaves you unbelievably convinced that these men are real- that someone somewhere has had similar experiences. Without a doubt, the writing is the heart and soul of the film. 

8.5 out of 10