"Martingale" is a journey that unfortunately overstays its welcome. Even at a 1 hour and 45 minutes, it tests the patience of the viewer. The plot meanders like a lost hiker in a dense forest, leaving viewers yearning for a more streamlined narrative.
The film's greatest flaw lies in its lighting. Or rather, the lack thereof. Scenes unfold in murky shadows. Characters converse in dimly lit rooms despite evidence showing that they are really well lit. And outdoor scenes look as though there is a smoke or haze in the air. Perhaps the director aimed for an atmospheric noir vibe, but it feels more like stumbling through a power outage.
For me the lighting destroyed the whole film, and I longed for it to end. Perhaps I could have got away with watching the first ten minutes and the last.
The acting was like the lighting, it was dead serious throughout, there was little to lighten the atmosphere to give relief from the heavy tension. Alas, their talents are often lost in the murky abyss of poor illumination.
Some viewers may find its labyrinthine plot and dimly lit aesthetics intriguing, while others will yearn for a brighter cinematic experience. Proceed with caution and bring a flashlight.
