Fest Track On Sirk TV Film Review: THE QUIET ONES [Toronto Intl Film Festival 2024 - Toronto, Ontario]

The aspect of a heist film always revolves around the main character’s point of ambition or motivation. In this Danish perspective of one of the biggest heists in their history it comes down to the notion of winning. In the bigger concept it is a notion of strategy and ego. “The Quiet Ones” [Discovery] has an inherent slickness and perspective that lifts it above its roots. The main character is a boxer who is at the top of his own form but will never be a champ. His family expects more of him but will be simply happy with who he. Unfortunately he will not. The film is mostly a build up to an elaborate heist. What makes it works is some of the tone and camerawork which gives the move its slick feel and elevates what might be cliche to good entertainment  

While there is one point of conflict which has possibility, it is never brought to a head. The key is the reality that winning is a point of perspective. While this is not necessarily a morality tale, it shows the weights of consequence. The synth score brings to mind certain elements of the late 80s but with a distinct element of say a “Heat” element but without the cop component at play. Once the heist starts it keeps build…again using force perspectives (one scene in the car is specifically well done using perception). The movie keeps it oneupmanship open ended in a way and an epilogue keeps the intent clear without over feeding the audience. B

By Tim Wassberg