REVIEW: ‘A Sacrifice’ is a Simple, No Frills Thriller

Living in Berlin, American social psychologist Ben Monroe (Eric Bana) is currently assisting the Berlin police department as they investigate multiple events linked to a local cult. Recently divorced, Ben is attempting to navigate these events with the arrival of his daughter, Mazzy (Sadie Sink) from California. As things with the investigation begin to heat up, Ben begins to spend less time with his daughter and more time with the police, including one of its officers, Nina (Sylvia Hoeks). In a new country and only one friend, Mazzy turns her attention to a local boy (Jonas Dassler) who promises to show her the ropes. However, when Mazzy’s path collides with Ben’s investigation, Ben will do whatever it takes to save his daughter before it is too late.

Inspired by Nicholas Hogg’s 2015 novel Tokyo Nobody, director and writer, Jordan Scott, has crafted a thriller that is as simple as A, B, C in A Sacrifice. Bana’s Monroe and Sink’s Mazzy are the main characters in this feature, each with their own intriguing storyline that beautifully weave together to create the overall tale. There are no filler scenes or unnecessary dialogue. Everything for this movie has been written and shot to strategically build up the tension, so the audience can then watch it combust in the final 20 minutes. The last 20 minutes of the movie is what makes the movie worth watching. Those minutes will have you on the edge of your seat. It is filled with twists and turns; some you may never see coming, amounting to an enjoyable ride.

Bana and Sink make for the perfect leading pair. Sink’s character Mazzy is supposed to be seen as a rebellious teenager, but Sink doesn’t lean into that description. Mazzy isn’t trying to resist her father’s control, instead she just wants someone to pay attention to her. She knows only one other person besides her dad in this city, and with her Dad out of the picture focusing on the case, she she can’t help but cave to the attention of this local boy. You can’t help but feel bad for Mazzy, and that all to do with Sink’s performance. Bana also gives a delightful performance. He navigates between oblivious Dad and confident psychologist with ease. His chemistry with Sink is what makes the movie, but his chemistry with Hoeks’ Nina will keep you asking the will they, won’t they question.

For those who have read Hogg’s Tokyo Nobody, remember this movie is inspired by the book. It is not a direct adaptation, so there have been several major changes. However, don’t let that deter you from checking this movie out. If you are looking for a movie that is straight and to the point, this is it. There are no frills, just a good old-fashioned thriller.

Grade: A