REVIEW: Most Dangerous Game is Slow Out the Gate, But Eventually Finds Its Rhythm

How would you like to earn millions of dollars in 24 hours? 24 hours and you are set for life. There is just one catch. During those 24 hours, you are being hunted by five other human beings who have their eyes set on killing you. Would you play the game? Well, for Liam Hemsworth that is exactly what he has to do in Quibi’s new movie, Most Dangerous Game.

Based on the short story of the same title, Quibi’s version is set in modern day Detroit. Hemsworth’s Dodge Maynard has been diagnosed with a terminal tumor and has no money to try and treat the tumor. To top it all off, his wife is pregnant and when he dies there will be no money and no one there to support them. Maynard has no idea what to do to help his family until an offer from a mysterious benefactor (Christoph Waltz) gives him the chance he needs. The only problem is, to make the money, Maynard has to be a hunted by 5 different hunters for 24 hours. With every hour he survives, money will be deposited into his bank account, but the chance of his survival is slim to known. Though, when you already have a death sentence on your head why not be hunted.

The movie is broken into 10 minute max chapters and the first couple of episodes are solely used to set up the game. The episodes provide information on Maynard and his family’s backstory and explains how gets roped into participating in the game. Waltz is the clear standout in these episodes. His character is calming and manipulative. You can’t help, but want to participate in the game when he begins to lay all the cards out on the table. Hemsworth does a nice job alongside the Academy Award winner as the torn Maynard. But it is not until the game begins do you really start rooting for his character.

Most Dangerous Game is a little slow at the beginning, but definitely picks up as the movie progresses. If you can make it through the first four chapters, you won’t be disappointed. The movie features a good amount of action and some jump out of your seats moments. But, as I stated earlier, you have to have a little patience before getting to it. Thankfully, the characters are pretty quick, so it won’t take up too much of your time.

Grade: B