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'Murder Mystery' (Netflix Film)

Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston's family romp.

By Spencer BarrettPublished 5 years ago 3 min read
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With a PG-13 Rating, a jaunt 1 hr 37 min run time, this Action, Comedy, Mystery is a great family journey that shows Sandler and Aniston still have much more to give.

Premise

Nick and Audrey Spitz (Sandler and Aniston) have been together for 15 years in a slowly declining marriage. Things just haven't gone as well in their careers as either of them have hoped with Audrey remaining a hairdresser, and with Nick failing his detectives exam three times in a row, he remains a cop. Life, unfortunately, has gotten in the way of their romance. In a confrontation with friends at dinner, Nick lies to Audrey, saying he has a big trip planned; an anniversary he has owed her for the past 15 years, on top of the mounting lies that he has indeed become a detective, and on top of that got a raise.

While on the plane overseas, they quickly get swept up in intrigue that begets murder rather hastily. When the bodies of the rich and affluent start to pile up, the "American" Spitz's are the primary suspects, and must prove their innocence, even as they evade Interpol.

Acting

Perhaps it's my long time respect for Sandler, (Billy Madison, Happy Gilmore, Mr. Deeds, Click) including his latest Netflix standup, 100% Fresh, but when a movie of his comes on, I do my best to watch it as soon as possible (except for Jack and Jill; I have no idea if it was any good or not). His talent is diverse, yet consistent and he can always deliver the punchline of a joke. Pairing him opposite of Aniston was a great move. Not only is Aniston instantly recognizable for her beauty, she brings forth a lot of chemistry that works well for Sandler and Aniston both; a chemistry, I believe, that is also enjoyed off screen. A brief appearance from Terence Stamp was also welcome, despite being made out to be a villain in this role; his small part was quite vital to the whole movie. Luke Evans was another fantastic addition to the cast. Despite being mostly unfamiliar with his work, his exceptional acting helped push the story along with just enough misdirection.

Review

First off, I think this movie was a success. The PG-13 rating it shot for was executed brilliantly, and even though there is death involved, the way it is downplayed in favor of the adventure is brilliantly done. There is some "crude sexual content" that passes quickly, but no nudity, and not tons of foul language. The most "crude humor" comes from a man, The Colonel, as a point of reference. Sandler's character, Nick, consistently makes jokes that he may have "shot off his dick"; this is mentioned at three or four different points. Many of the more mature themes (which remain firmly teenager, and never quite enter an adult level) will be completely overlooked by kids.

The emotions present are great though! The younger kids could see when Audrey is upset with Nick for lying or not getting Claritin. The overall premise of the murder mystery is great, and easily obtainable for all. It harkens back to the days of gathering around as a family and busting out the Clue board game. The overall feel of the story and how this adventure brings them together, the confidence they both feel at the end, all that is translated very well through the construction of the film itself.

I wouldn't say it is Sandler's best, but is a fine addition to his already growing body of work. And for Aniston, it's another Netflix marker going up on the chalkboard I give it. 7.5/10

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About the Creator

Spencer Barrett

A 32 year old Fine Arts graduate with a career in hospitality, Spencer is a published Author, Poet, and artist; Streamer, GameDev, and creator in many mediums, with a guilty spot for animated cinematic movies.

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