User reviews

As with a lot of shows or movies the ratings are all over the map. My wife and I like to watch a movie or series, usually from one of the streaming services each evening. One of the others reviews asked "why does this even exist". Well, it exists for someone who wants to watch something and be reasonably entertained.

We thought it was a decent watch, with good and familiar actors, great scenery, and yes predictable plot, and yes maybe ten minutes too long but we were not disappointed, it served its purpose.

If I could rate it 5.5 I would, which is exactly where its overall rating is right now. So, if your looking for something for your evening watch and dont expect something Oscar worthy this one will work.

Joseph Gordon Levitt and Shailene Woodley both do an excellent job in the lead roles. The script isn't anything groundbreaking, but its still well thought out and will keep you guessing, while also giving us enough background of the two leads to make them relatable.. This is billed as noir, but the only thing Noir about Killer Heat is the narration from Levitt. It was filmed on Location in one of the brightest locals in the world Greece, so if the director wanted to make noir he should have filmed elsewhere. Otherwise, this is a decent enough mystery to entertain and its running time is short enough to not become bored. This wont win any awards, but its enjoyable enough to watch.

After selecting this for movie night, my wife told me the IMDB rating of 5.5, so I read a few reviews before watching. We both decided to give it a try even after reading some of the low-star reviews.

Sure, there's a couple of parts that make you wonder about certain actions, but everything is there for a reason. I found it to be a good story with decent twists. Sometimes you just have to go with the story and not think that you can write better material; the story is the story, and that's that.

The acting was really good, especially Shailene Woodley, who really delivers at the end with a very believable reaction (which I won't spoil).

I'm glad we watched it, and both of us film fans can be very critical (I've also written scripts & directed a few of my own ideas, but I put that aside).

I give it a 6.8. I don't get why this movie has such a low rating. It's not a groundbreaking plot or one filled with a bunch of twists but it's not crap either. The mystery aspect of the story I doubt you'll be guessing either. (Which I believe is or almost is the most important part of a mystery movie.) It's a detective story through n through. The acting is also pretty solid, no one had a bad performance. I think Shailene Woodley always gives as great performance, which was also true here. Joseph-Gordon Levitt was pretty good. Was t his best work but wasn't bad either. Visually the movie is also pleasing. Some great shots on a beautiful island.

It is the world we live in now, any person can say anything about a movie even if what they say makes no sense. Like here, the first day of release streaming on Prime, one so-called review establishes an account and trashes it and gives it a "1" rating. Which is totally absurd and misleading. Makes me wonder the motive.

We are seeing many mediocre to bad "made for streaming" movies but this is not one of those. In fact it is a cut above most of them. The actors are good and while there aren't many really novel ideas here it is suspenseful and the last 30 minutes or so reveal a few surprises.

It reminds me of the old 1940s and 1950s detective movies where a Private Investigator is hired to sort out what really happened. Was it really an accident? Or was it murder? Shot in beautiful area of Crete, Greece.

As the movie opens we see a death in the first minute, it is a 30-something man free climbing a cliff in a public assessable area but only by boat. He seems about 2/3 of the way up when he falls, the investigative report estimates he fell about 30 meters, which for us Americans is about 100 feet. The quick investigation rules it an accident but how would they know how high up he was? From the brief glimpse we don't really have much of a clue.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt (early 40s) is a Greek-American private investigator Nick Bali. He is hired by Shailene Woodley (early 30s) as Penelope Vardaki. The dead climber is her brother-in-law, she is married to his identical twin brother, of the wealthy Greek shipping family of the area. She secretly approaches Nick, she hires him to investigate the death because she strongly suspects that it was murder, not an accident, but keep her involvement quiet. We quickly find out there was some tension between the twin brothers.

The movie is made in the style with ongoing narration by Nick, basically telling us what he is thinking and what he suspects. I like both Gordon-Levitt and Woodley and both are excellent in their roles. The cinematography makes good use of the local scenery.

As with most movies nowadays there are few novel ideas, however we watch a movie like this to be entertained and my wife and I found it entertaining. Curiously, we each watched it at different times in different cities. Golf trip...

While the narration felt a bit unnecessary, Killer heat offers a satisfying viewing experience. The performances were commendable, and the dialogue, though straightforward, served its purpose.

The classic cinematography and well-paced storytelling were refreshing. The movie kept me engaged and entertained throughout.

While there were a few plot inconsistencies that might raise eyebrows, they didn't significantly detract from the overall enjoyment. The music was a good complement to the story, helping to immerse the viewer.

I would suggest toning down the Greek tourism promotion slightly, but overall, killer heat is a worthwhile watch.

A mystery so trite that you see all the (very few) twists from very far and in fact the twist is that there is no surprise at all. Not that it makes any sense by the way when you think about it for one second. This movie is so cliche it borders on parody but it takes itself very seriously.

I guess this was an excuse for all involved to have a vacation in Crete, maybe a tax scheme for the producers also, otherwise no idea why this movie even exists.

It's not even awful. It's ok and if you never saw a whodunit in your life I guess there are worse things to watch but in any other case don't bother.

I don't mind a mystery where I predict the end so long as I enjoy the ride getting there. That's the case for this movie.

It's marketed as noir so, like almost all noir, I predicted the end before I even pressed play. That's the problem with the genre. It has such predictable tropes that you hardly need to know anything about it to guess the ending. And this movie really embraced the classic tropes, which is one reason I liked it, and another reason I found it so predictable.

That said, the setting in Greece, the slow and steady pacing, the enigmatic characters... they made this an enjoyable film to watch. The acting was decent and so was the writing. These days, with the constant churn of streaming content where quantity matters over quality, that means something.

It just didn't have any real heart. It was lackluster at every turn occasionally however, some bright spots shown through. A line here a line there.

Beautifully shot in a beautiful location, the cinematography was absolutely great. I just wish they had cut at least 10 minutes out of the film because most Of the character interactions were just fluff, not to mention long periods of nothing happening on screen, for instance, long zooming in shots or too many aerials, looking straight down. It seemed to undermine the setting and atmosphere the creators desired. It was too opposing ideas that couldn't work together.

I will say this, all of the acting was superb, and the choice of actors and characters involved was unique.

Watchable and even briefly evocative thriller. Great setting, atmosphere, and more than competent cinematography. Woodley stands out as a femme fatale. Gordon-Levitt makes the most of a generally solid script that has a few missteps. The dialogue, particularly the voice over, drops into heavy-handed pastiche every few minutes and that will probably seem bizarre to anyone too young to have seen Bogart. For all the tried-and-true dedication to the genre, they definitely could have gone for a more cut-throat ending, but they pull the punch at the last minute, which is significantly less satisfying.

The son of a wealthy family on Greece's island falls fatally while rock climbing. The death is determined as an accident. But his twin brother's wife believes that he was murdered. So she hires a PI to find the murderer.

One of the drawbacks of Killer Heat is the suspects, ie. Not enough red herring because the list is short. As a commonly noir, "half-boiled" detective story, there is the monologue voiceover, half of the time focusing on the PI past, which explains that he is the jealousy type, which helps his line of work -- recognizing the subtle hint that arouses suspicion.

I rarely guess the whodunnit correctly in most movies, though not this one. But probably that's not the point. It's poetic, which brings:

With its unique theme, I believe Killer Heat has potential, but why it misses the target I don't know -- either a little short deficient writing or it's just not working great for screen.

I enjoyed some scenes but was numb with the rest. It is a half-forgettable movie, though I will remember the three actors who have ever been in this one when I see them next in other movies.

A true film noir has its own unique and unmistakable style. At its core, it is more than just a genre- it's an aesthetic built around mood, tone, and an exploration of moral ambiguity. It hinges on morally complex characters, particularly the femme fatale, She's a pivotal figure, luring the detective (or male protagonist) into a web of deception. The detective, in turn, is usually flawed-perhaps weary, disillusioned, or haunted by his past-and finds himself pulled into a situation far more complex than he initially understood.

The plot develops slowly-as a slow burn - emphasizing suspense rather than fast-paced action. It draws the audience deeper into the murky waters of corruption, often leading to endings that are bleak or tinged with moral compromise. No clean victories here -just characters lost in a morally grey world. In essence, a true film noir thrives on fatalism, and the inevitability of betrayal. It's about characters driven by their desires and flaws. Right from the start, I saw this as similar to the movie 'From the start, the movie *Body Heat* felt similar, and as a fan of the genre, I correctly guessed the outcome 50 minutes in. It didn't disappoint.

Not sure why the low rating: it's a good story, relatable characters, beautiful setting. Some cheesy dialogues make you wonder "why", but there is sufficient substance and good acting to put it on high 6 or, if you like the cast, a 7. The main actors can all certainly do better, as they have shown in other movies, but they always keep you hooked and it never gets boring.

As for the story: it's a pretty classic PI, often narrated by a self-reflective Humphrey Bogart voice. The main detective story is interwoven with a flashback story of boiling emotions from the past, which are smartly laced into the multi-layered society of the beautiful Greek island, where the gods make their own rules since centuries.

Ivorian director Philippe Lacôte brings us an adaptation of Jo Nesbø's story and does so in the right way, without any excesses, delivering a film that fulfills its purpose, but that will not set any great records this year.

The film intends to provide us with intrigue and mystery in a correct way and without going overboard, it is simple and easy to follow, and it is entertaining in its final result, in which its director has a lot to do with it, he knows how to place the camera and how to make us part of everything that is happening. The good handling of its director allows us at times to feel like we are watching one of those Hollywood film noir movies from the golden years, but certainly without the glamour or success of those great titles, but the intentions are demonstrated in the identity that its director seeks to convey.

The cast's good work, especially Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Shailene Woodley, who give themselves completely to their characters, which are the ones that are really best constructed within the script, and that is evident in both performances. It's not that they are the best performances of both, but at least they transport us to that detective with complexes and that mysterious woman. The supporting cast also contributes their part without any greatness.

It is an interesting journey that has some well-done moments and others where it loses a bit of strength. Its memorable landscapes of Greece and a photography and soundtrack that enhance Philippe Lacôte's direction allow us to have a correct film that fulfills what it seeks to deliver within the limitations of its script.

A bet for this weekend offered by Prime Video that has that film noir touch, but that doesn't quite reach the pinnacle of a genre that has given us great films. However, it does manage to have moments that will make you spend a pleasant time in front of the television this weekend.

Athens-based American PI Gordon-Levitt, despite some skeletons in his closet, is good at what he does. He commutes to the sunbaked island of Crete that's almost entirely under the influence of the wealthy Vardakis family when he's hired by vampish Woodley--a member of that same family who wants him to anonymously look into the "accidental death" of her husband's twin brother, but doing so gets him knee-deep in the tense familial drama. Set up like a hard-boiled crime thriller this offers tidbits of interest and intrigue, plus the scenery is gorgeous, but it's bereft of intensity, fully-realized characters outside of Joseph & Shailene, and has too many moments of implausibility. There are enough story turns to keep a viewer engaged, but De Palma used to do this kind of thing with much more style and verve decades ago. **

"Killer Heat" boasts a talented cast and a beautiful Greek island setting, but its predictable plot and slow pacing prevent it from reaching its full potential. Joseph Gordon-Levitt delivers a solid performance as the troubled detective Nick Bali, and Shailene Woodley shines as the enigmatic Penelope Vardakis.

While the film effectively captures the sultry atmosphere of a sun-drenched Mediterranean paradise, the story itself fails to ignite much excitement. The twists and turns feel telegraphed, and the screenplay doesn't fully capitalize on the intriguing premise.

Overall, "Killer Heat" is a competent, if unremarkable, entry in the crime thriller genre. Fans of the cast or the film's stunning location may find it to be an interesting watch, but others might be better off seeking their thrills elsewhere.

"Killer Heat" is a gripping crime mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Directed by Philippe Lacôte, the film stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Shailene Woodley, and Richard Madden, who deliver stellar performances. Set on a picturesque yet isolated Greek island, the story revolves around twin brothers entangled in a perilous love triangle. The plot thickens with the arrival of "The Jealousy Man," a detective with a dark past. The film's strength lies in its atmospheric tension and character depth, though some may find the pacing uneven. Overall, it's a compelling watch for mystery enthusiasts.

A sunshine noir released that falls below expectations. It is letdown by leaning too heavily on the tropes of the washed-out detective story, the devious femme fatale and the crazy twins. The black detective and its dog was a colourful and probably unnecessary supporting act. The voiceover narration was a bit preemptive and grating. The needless recourse to Greek mythology was clever by half, given that the locale is a Greek Island did not warrant the needless tapping. Being lodged with monks is very weird, too. But for some reason, I kept watching until the end, both the false and apparent resolutions of the mystery. It could have been better, but it is good enough to keep one watching.

That sounds actually wrong - especially because I wanted it to be more like meet you ... well no pun intended and as a Greek citizen, I think I am allowed to make a joke about "my" country. All that aside though (and nice to see Greek islands being represented in the last couple of years in Hollywood movies), the movie is a decent little thrillers.

I imagine they had more fun doing this, than some will have watching it. But it is supposed to be uncomfortable. And Woodley is as beautiful as ever ... of course you could ask yourself if the twin theme was necessary ... as most will be able to see the twists coming miles away ... just go with the flow and enjoy as much as possible ...

While it tends to be a little predictable from early on. It is still a good, worthwhile watch, with some good acting and beautiful sights.

Both Shailene Woodley and Joseph Gordon-Levitt give a good portrayal of the characters, with a solid acting performances to boot. So I feel that the 5.8 rating on here, doesn't do it justice.

Due to their previous performances, on the movie Snowden. (2016) The two have good chemistry together, which is evident during their joint scenes.

The film follows an older style, "who done it" detective style. If you're a fan of that genre of films, I would definitely recommend giving it a watch. It won't blow you out of the water. However, you will enjoy it and be glad you watched it.

Predictable from start to finish. Typically Hollywood murder mystery there is nothing special about it and don't even get me started on the unfinished plots throughout the entire movie. Not a single character has any depth nor are you drawn to them or hope they have a happy ending at the end of the movie. The only actor in the movie I was wooed by was the golden retriever and we have no idea what happened to him. Every scene felt really odd and unnecessary and that the plot was compromised for the sake of getting good cinematography and making the most of the rented out super-yacht.

It's a shame because it really is a star studded cast. What a pity to waste such talent actors on this dumpster fire of a movie. Completely and utterly forgettable. Don't waste your time.

Sure, wasn't amazing cinema but well paced, good acting and a storyline (albeit somewhat predictable)

Joseph Gordon-Levitt provided a very complex character, dealing with his own personal demons. Shalene Woodley, a very underrated actress, has grown up with more diversity in her acting skills. Richard Madden, long from his universally loved character Robb Stark, gives an eerie performance.

Some loopholes in the film but nothing where you feel like a lost possibility.

I am personally shocked the amount of negative reviews. I had little to middle expectations and found this movie entertaining, Not a bad 90 minutes to use on a Tuesday evening

Enjoy!

I gave it a go as I like these actors, liked the setting and liked the concept of a neo-noir.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt has been in a neo-nour before, his breakout film "Brick" which whilst not perfect is several cuts above this. It's worth a watch if you've not seen it.

Gordon-Levitt's voiceover lends itself to a personality we just don't see on screen, it's a real mismatch, the person we see on screen doesn't seem half as edgy, in fact Gordon-Levitt never gets out of first gear here in terms of showing any range.

Another odd observation was he barely changes his clothes for most of the film even though it seems to be set over quite a few days.

The "twist" towards the end was literally my first throwaway thought the moment I realised the film was about twins.

We keep getting flashbacks to Gordon-Levitt's old life and family, only problem is his character isn't likeable enough for us to care and I'm not sure that it adds anything.

There's a lot of talking, really dull conversations that throw names all over the place where quite honestly my mind started wandering.

The only positive is I found some of the scenery and cinematograohy pleasant.

One to avoid.