Hidden Agenda (2015) Reviews

• A good effort

  jamestwymanmedia2015-10-18

  Its clear from the off that Warren's film is inspired by the like of David Fincher, hoping to weave a tight, emotional and tense serial killer story that would take an audience on one hell of a journey. Whilst the film has some good ideas, it unfortunately falls short on most of its goals. The film unfortunately doesn't look great, often out of focus and unimaginative in it's cinematography. But every now and then there is a flair or flourish peeping through. The odd shot that does a perfect job of telling the story well. The performances are generally flat with the exception of the detective who manages to create a fairly 3 dimensional and the reporter who gives a brave and venerable performance through out the film. The story chugs along, ticking the cliché boxes and doing everything you'd expect it too and then every now and then it manages to pull the rug from underneath you with genuine twists I didn't see coming. Overall Hidden Agenda isn't the worst indie flick I've seen, it has it's moments but I do feel like the film makers have better in them. I look forward to seeing what they come up with next.

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• Warning! A hoax! Phony reviews!

  karlericsson2015-11-07

  This film is totally devoid of logic. The plot is ridiculous. I hope the guys doing the film had a lot of fun while doing it, because if they had not and Believe they made a film to be taken seriously, like other Reviews here seem to indicate, then the same guys are only to be pitied like the other reviewers on this page if, in turn, they are on the level too. I like to Believe that this film was done by people who deeply disgust crime stories and wanted to make an anti-crime story, something deeply ridiculous without revealing it out loud. When I Watch this film with this assumption of intended ridicule, it is actually quite funny as are the other Reviews on this page that, I suppose, similarly ridicule Reviews. I would have left it by that, if I did not have a dreadful suspicion that this is not a hoax and done in all seriousness. Then people must be warned - these people, film-makers and reviewers,are dangerously crazy/stupid!

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• Nice Crime Drama

  geraldyelverton2015-07-28

  "Hidden Agendas" is a gritty crime drama that centers on a detective who must solve a kidnapping case while seemingly both his professional and personal life are crumbling around him. Hans Henke plays the lead role of Detective Matthews and does a good job portraying the different dynamics of a complicated character nearing the end of his rope. In one particular drunken scene his dialogue to his wife is almost frightening as his character does a complete 180 in personality. Valin Brenwen who plays the main antagonist gives a haunting performance reminiscent of horror film psycho rather than the villain of a crime drama. His portrayal of the creepy suspect is a welcoming change in tone at times in the film. Cameron Bigelow as the young detective brings teen idol looks to the otherwise older male dominant cast. The dynamic between he and Henke make for an interesting teacher/apprentice relationship. Real acting chops are shown by Adam Barnett who plays the Chief of Police. A performance worthy of a seasoned pro, his character really grounds the film in reality. The only deterrence of the acting ensemble are the female counter parts. I wouldn't necessarily blame the actresses as the characters seemed one note, without much for the artists to work with. I wish stronger, individual female characters were present as a few of the leading characters seem like the same individual and caricatures of other films. All in all I recommend the film to anyone looking for an interesting crime drama. The backdrop of Miami is a welcoming setting of the film which almost serves as a character itself. The transition scenes add production value to the obviously independent film. With a running time of less than 90 minutes viewing this film is not a chore at all for its audience who may opt to watch it just to pick out a few possible acting stars of the future.

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• Dark and gritty crime story!

  movieslick2015-07-13

  When you've been a desk jockey for so long it has to be hard to get out on the street to find a serial killer who does nothing but taunt you at every turn. This is the case for Detective Mathews and as he gets sucked deeper and deeper into the investigation he begins to unravel to the point of self destruction of his entire life. His wife has had enough of his drinking and never being home and even when he is home its like he isn't there because his head is focused only on his case and nothing more. Hans Hernke's portrayal of Detective Matthews is what holds this movie together. His performance is dark and gritty and what independent film making is all about. A cat and mouse detective story that delivers the goods.

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