Unlocking Thrills: A Captivating Review of ‘Locked’ Starring Bill Skarsgård and Anthony Hopkins

If you’re thinking about car theft, here’s a tip: don’t break into a luxury SUV. You might get more than you bargained for—like being trapped inside by the owner. And if you hear the car phone ring, just ignore it. But if you dare to answer, you might be treated to the chilling voice of Anthony Hopkins.

In “Locked,” Bill Skarsgard plays Eddie Barrish, a desperate criminal turned victim. Skarsgard, known for his roles as Pennywise and Count Orlok, finds himself on the wrong side of a dangerous game. It’s a twist that sets the stage for a tense showdown.

This film is a remake of the 2019 Argentinian thriller “4×4,” which gained attention on the festival circuit. The story features Eddie, a criminal who, despite his shady choices, cares for his young daughter. But things quickly turn dark when he tries to rob a vehicle that turns out to be a high-tech trap. Instead of getting away with it, Eddie finds himself in a soundproof, secure prison on wheels. Add to that the fact that his escape attempts only lead to self-inflicted pain.

When the phone rings and a man named William introduces himself, it’s just the beginning of Eddie’s torment. William, voiced by Hopkins, speaks with a refined accent, explaining his motives for trapping Eddie in the SUV. He’s frustrated with repeated break-ins and has decided to take justice into his own hands. Eddie suffers electric shock, temperature extremes, and even unbearable polka music—all thanks to William’s twisted sense of justice.

The film is sprinkled with philosophical musings, including a nod to Dostoevsky’s “Crime and Punishment.” Eddie tries to relate to his captor, but the situation only escalates. William’s method of reward and punishment keeps the interaction tense and bizarre. He calls Eddie “old sport,” reminiscent of characters from classic novels, adding a layer of irony to the film’s theme of crime and consequence.

Director David Yarovesky keeps the pacing tight, ensuring the movie remains engaging despite its outlandish premise. Skarsgard’s intense performance adds depth to Eddie’s plight, while Hopkins delivers a memorable, albeit distanced, portrayal of an intellectual villain. Interestingly, Hopkins only recorded his lines, showing how he can still captivate without being physically present.

This film invites viewers to think about justice and punishment. As crime rates fluctuate—recent studies show that vehicle thefts are increasing in many urban areas—”Locked” resonates with current societal concerns. A report from the FBI indicates motor vehicle thefts rose by 11.8% in 2022, emphasizing the relevance of the story.

In summary, “Locked” offers a unique blend of suspense and dark humor. With strong performances and a gripping concept, it keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, proving that a clever idea can lead to an engaging experience, even within its extravagant setup.



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Anthony Hopkins,Bill Skarsgard,Sam Raimi