Cleaner (2007) Review: Crime Scene Cleanup or Crime Scene Setup?

**Simon** (0:00)
Today we're doing a movie review of Cleaner from 2007 Cleaner, directed by Renny Harlin and written by Matthew Aldrich, is a crime thriller that attempts to weave a complex narrative around the life of Tom Cutler, played by Samuel L. Jackson, a retired police officer who now runs a crime scene clean-up business. The film, released in 2008, features a notable cast including Ed Harris and Eva Mendes, and runs for 88 minutes. Despite its intriguing premise and star-studded line-up, Cleaner struggles to maintain the suspense and engagement expected from a thriller of its kind. The plot centres on Tom Cutler, who is unwittingly drawn into a web of police corruption and murder when he is hired to clean a crime scene before the authorities are even aware of the crime. This set-up promises a gripping mystery, but the film falls short of delivering the tension and excitement that such a storyline demands. While the film's visual style is commendable, with Harlin's direction providing a polished look, the narrative lacks the depth and unpredictability needed to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Samuel L. Jackson's portrayal of Tom Cutler is solid, yet his performance is somewhat overshadowed by the film's inability to fully explore the character's complexities.
The script hints at Tom's troubled past and his struggle to maintain a relationship with his daughter, Rose, played by Keke Palmer, but these elements are not sufficiently developed to add the emotional weight the story requires.
Keke Palmer, however, stands out with a commendable performance, bringing a sense of authenticity to her role as Tom's daughter. The supporting cast, including Ed Harris as Tom's former partner and Eva Mendes as the enigmatic Ann Norkut, deliver performances that are competent, but not particularly memorable. The film's reliance on familiar tropes and predictable plot twists further diminishes its impact.
The mystery at the heart of Cleaner is unraveled in a manner that feels more procedural than thrilling, leaving little room for genuine surprise or intrigue.
Despite its shortcomings, Cleaner is not without its merits. The film's exploration of moral ambiguity and the consequences of past actions provide some thought-provoking moments. However, these themes are not sufficiently fleshed out to elevate the film beyond its conventional framework. The narrative's potential is undermined by a lack of cohesion and a tendency to play it safe, resulting in a film that is more forgettable than it is engaging. In summary, Cleaner is a film that aspires to be a compelling thriller but ultimately falls short of its ambitions. While it offers a visually appealing experience and features a capable cast, the film's lack of narrative depth and suspense leaves it feeling incomplete. For those seeking a crime thriller with substance and intrigue, Cleaner may not fully satisfy, but it remains a watchable film for fans of the genre. That's my take on Cleaner, and I'm giving it 3 stars out of a maximum of 5 stars. Thank you for listening. If you've enjoyed what you've heard, please like, subscribe, and I'll see you next time at Mindset Movie Reviews.