Director Justin Kurzel has a remarkable ability to delve into the darker aspects of human nature, creating films that linger in the mind long after viewing. His groundbreaking 2011 film, Snowtown, quickly established itself as a staple on lists of the most unsettling films ever produced. Following that, in 2019, True History of the Kelly Gang offered an almost surreal interpretation of the infamous Ned Kelly and his gang. Then, in 2021, Nitram crafted a slow-burn tension that was both palpable and disquieting. Yet, at the core of Kurzel’s most impactful works lies a haunting truth: these narratives are based on real events, and while they are dramatized, the chilling reality that such atrocities exist in our world is deeply disturbing.

Initially, Kurzel’s latest film, a gripping crime drama inspired by real events titled The Order, appears to follow a familiar narrative arc reminiscent of Michael Mann’s thrillers. However, as the plot unfolds, the familiar sense of dread that Kurzel expertly evokes begins to resurface; a pervasive, unsettling atmosphere envelops the storyline. Unlike his previous films that lay their horrors bare for viewers to confront, The Order disturbs in an altogether different manner. As we witness the deep-seated hatred exhibited by the antagonists, we come to a chilling realization: these modern-day monsters eerily mirror the threats present in our contemporary society.

Delve into the Gripping Plot of ‘The Order’

Set against the backdrop of 1983 Idaho, a menacing criminal organization is wreaking havoc across the Pacific Northwest, engaging in a string of robberies, bombings, and elaborate counterfeiting schemes. FBI agent Terry Husk, portrayed by Jude Law, is in a transitional phase of his life; having just settled into his new role in a quiet town, he yearns for peace before reuniting with his family. However, it soon becomes apparent to Husk that these crimes are orchestrated by a white supremacist faction aiming to fund their extremist agenda to seize control of the U.S. government. Led by the volatile Bob Mathews, played by Nicholas Hoult, this group is not only well-prepared but also dangerously unpredictable, making them a force to be reckoned with.

To combat this growing threat, Husk teams up with fellow FBI agent Joanna Carney, portrayed by Jurnee Smollett, and local police officer Jamie Bowen, played by Tye Sheridan. Together, they must navigate the complexities of tracking down Mathews and his nefarious crew before they escalate their violent plans. Meanwhile, Mathews and his faction are alarmingly close to amassing the funds necessary to propel their extremist agenda to the next level.

Experience the Visual Brilliance and Dark Themes of ‘The Order’

From the breathtaking landscapes of the Pacific Northwest to the grim realities of a world where hate crimes are rampant, The Order is visually stunning. This is largely attributed to Kurzel’s masterful direction and the exceptional cinematography by his long-time collaborator, Adam Arkapaw. Much like Arkapaw’s upcoming project, Magazine Dreams, this film captivates the viewer’s eye even amid its darkest moments. Whether it’s the intense scene where Jude Law’s character confronts the white nationalist group or the striking contrast between moments of beauty and the underlying hate, The Order proves to be an aesthetic marvel, even as it explores profoundly unsettling themes.

Kurzel excels in cultivating an atmosphere of tension and suspense throughout the narrative, ensuring that viewers remain engaged, even during quieter scenes. There is an omnipresent threat of violence, rendering even peaceful moments fraught with potential peril. Although The Order shares similarities with traditional cat-and-mouse thrillers, a persistent sense of impending doom lingers throughout. Early in the film, Mathews’ group robs a bank and plants a bomb as a diversion, which never detonates, leaving the audience on edge. In a clever narrative device, Kurzel crafts his film as if he’s placed a ticking bomb within its structure, building anticipation for when it might finally explode.

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The screenplay, crafted by Zach Baylin, who garnered an Oscar nomination for King Richard, effectively intertwines Husk’s investigation with the chilling activities of Mathews’ organization. The depth of Husk’s character is evident in his flawed but determined approach to the case, as he grapples with a team of detectives who struggle to comprehend the gravity of the situation. His relentless pursuit for justice often leads him to take significant risks, while the audience witnesses the meticulous planning of Mathews transforming his faction into a militia poised for chaos.

Baylin’s writing is overt, yet this boldness enhances the film’s effectiveness. Several moments explicitly highlight The Order’s ambition to seize the Capitol, drawing stark parallels between extremist groups and the current political climate in the United States. These instances serve to underscore the narrative’s relevance, making it clear that subtlety is not needed in a world where dangerous ideologies often clash with democratic ideals.

Jude Law and Nicholas Hoult Deliver Powerful Performances in ‘The Order’

The Order provides both Jude Law and Nicholas Hoult the opportunity to portray characters that challenge their typical roles. Law’s portrayal of Husk is a departure from his usual fare, showcasing a gritty, angry persona driven by desperation and duty. He embodies a character who, despite his yearning to reconnect with his family, prioritizes his job above all else, bearing the weight of this internal conflict. This role allows Law to explore new dimensions in his performance, and he delivers an outstanding portrayal.

In contrast, Hoult, who has had a remarkable 2024 with roles in Nosferatu and Juror #2, shines in The Order with a performance that exudes quiet intensity and menace. Kurzel captures his character as a powder keg, with a simmering intensity that suggests a dangerous potential. Hoult’s ability to play a seemingly charming figure makes his character all the more compelling, as viewers grapple with the allure of his charisma while recognizing the malevolence behind it. His performance in The Order solidifies this year as a pivotal moment in his career.

With The Order, Kurzel adopts a more straightforward narrative style than in his previous films, offering an engaging, Mann-esque thriller that keeps viewers riveted. Yet, he adeptly maintains the unsettling energy that has characterized his earlier works. The Order is a compelling crime drama that resonates deeply, often invoking a sense of fear that hits disturbingly close to home.

Mark your calendars: The Order is set to hit theaters on December 6.

Justin Kurzel’s The Order is a haunting cat-and-mouse crime thriller that features great performances and hits too close to home.

Pros

• Kurzel’s scope gets grander, but he never loses what makes his films so uncomfortable.
• Jude Law and Nicholas Hoult give great performances in this disturbing mystery.
• The Order knows how to balance between the good and evil sides, always giving us both perspectives in just the right amount.

Cons

• Some of the secondary characters don’t have enough to do.

The Order is a gripping historical crime thriller directed by Justin Kurzel. Set in 1983, the film follows FBI agent Terry Husk as he investigates a series of violent crimes plaguing the Pacific Northwest. He discovers that these acts of terror are not the work of an ordinary criminal gang but rather a well-organized white supremacist group led by the charismatic Bob Mathews. As the investigation unfolds, Husk delves deeper into a radical underground network that challenges everything he believes.

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