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Those Who Wish Me Dead Blu-ray Review

“Those Who Wish Me Dead” is a watchable but basic thriller.

Based on the novel by Michael Koryta, “Those Who Wish Me Dead” is essentially a tale of three stories that eventually connect. There’s the story that revolves around a former smokejumper turned fire lookout tower employee (Hannah) who is struggling with past trauma. The second storyline revolves around a young boy (Connor) who is on the run from two brutal hitmen (Jack and Patrick Blackwell) working for a mob boss (Arthur). Connor’s father Owen (who was killed) had evidence against Arthur and Arthur doesn’t want any loose ends or anything that could incriminate him. The third storyline centers around a Deputy (Ethan) and his pregnant wife (Allison). Connor, as it turns out, is also Ethan’s nephew-in-law. Ethan has been investigating murders by the Blackwell brothers and this path could very well endanger himself, his family, and others. As the story progresses, Hannah encounters Connor and tries to help him, but unfortunately, they now also have to deal with a forest fire that was started by the Blackwell brothers.

For those expecting “Those Who Wish Me Dead” to be another tantalizing thriller in the vein of director Taylor Sheridan’s past work ala the excellent “Wind River,” it’s not. It’s a rather straightforward thriller about survival and redemption that honestly feels too pedestrian for the filmmaker. The script (written by Sheridan, Charles Leavitt, and original author Michael Koryta) offers little in the way of surprises, leaps of logic (such as questionable character actions and how anyone is even breathing in the heart of the fire), and generic characterization. Frankly, it all feels beneath Sheridan who is one of the more exciting new voices in Hollywood. Sure, Sheridan has created an intense, violent, and watchable movie, but that’s not enough.

The character work may be limited, but the cast is stellar. Angelina Jolie does a fine job balancing both action and drama. Finn Little shows promise as a young actor in the role of Connor. Aidan Gillen and Nicholas Hoult steal the movie as the killer Blackwell brothers. Jon Bernthal (Ethan) and the on the rise actress Medina Senghore (Allison) also turn in quality performances.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 1080p. How does it look? The Blu-ray transfer is solid, but it’s a little strange as to why there is no 4K release.

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? The 5.1 track is effective (especially during scenes with raging fires and shootouts).  

Extras include a Digital copy and a 14 ½ minute making of featurette.

August 7, 2021 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Angelina Jolie, Nicholas Hoult, Those Who Wish me Dead, Those Who Wish Me Dead Blu-ray Review