Inspired by actual events, Centigrade follows Naomi (Genesis Rodriguez), a novelist travelling with her husband Matt (Vincent Piazza). While the two are travelling to Norway for a book tour, they decide to stop their SUV and get some rest. They also cannot drive further during the ongoing snowstorm. The film begins with the two waking up to find their car is now buried deep in snow, and they are both trapped with no way of escaping.
We witness our leads debating the best way of trying to escape and attempting to survive the cold while being trapped. Along the way, the film provides its audiences with a few significant reveals, mostly shared in moments of either frustration and weakness.
Those who have been following Walkden Entertainment for some time will know I’m a massive fan of films that take place in one location. It’s a skill and a real challenge for both actors and filmmakers to pull off. Titles like Buried, Phone Booth & Locke are some of my all-time favourites that do this concept well. Performances from both leading actors in this film are generally pleasing from start to finish. I also noticed significant changes in both of the actor’s appearances as the film progressed. This was a nice touch of realism, given the story.
While I understand this film is based on actual events, the characters are generally uninteresting. This is mainly because the film opens up with zero character development or reason to care. Our first introduction to the two characters is seeing the two wake up inside their SUV and finding themselves trapped. Both characters also have moments where their actions are questionable instead of being believable.
Overall, while I usually enjoy films in one location and Centigrade is based on actual events, it’s a disappointing film. The film provides little character development, leaving its audiences questioning why they should care. The movie’s plot is pretty basic, but this film’s runtime goes slowly like ice trying to melt. It’s a fascinating and exciting story, sure, but there are lots of missed opportunities here, and a film based on actual events deserves better. Centigrade (2020) is Now Available on DVD!
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