In North Washington, Deputy Tabby (Nikki Amuka-Bird) wakes up and prepares for her day as a sheriff. She takes various pills, and we see her moving about with a crutch due to her bad limp. While Tabby has been a sheriff for some time, she has been on leave due to her leg recovery. Tagging along for the upcoming shift at Clay County Sheriff’s Office is her son Monty (Zack Morris). It’s evident that Tabby and Monty are not on good terms, and when they arrive at the office, Monty stays in the car and plays with his mobile device in frustration.
Tabby’s return to work will involve handling dispatch via radio. She is also briefed and informed that someone had broken into the sheriff’s office the night before. Unfortunately, the security cameras around the office are outdated, so no evidence or further details relating to the break-in are available. Tabby is also briefed on a few current cases, including a recent murder committed within the community. When the two officers leave the premises to question a prime suspect, Tabby stays behind to handle incoming calls. With only one prisoner behind bars and her son waiting alone in the car, Tabby hopes for a quiet night of police work. However, it turns out that crucial evidence is hidden somewhere in the office, and someone dangerous wants it back. Tabby’s office comes under fire as a mysterious group tries to retrieve the evidence. Tabby must use her skills as a sheriff to stay alive in a small office while protecting fellow officers in the field and her only son.
Jericho Ridge is an action-packed movie that delivers a few solid thrills and plot twists along the way. The director, Will Gilbey, is best known for his work on Blood, Sweat, and Terrors (2018). Despite being set in a small sheriff’s office; the movie is engaging and entertaining for most of the duration. The director has made excellent use of the limited space, and the plot is gripping.
Watching Tabby constantly multitask and defend the office against mysterious killers keeps viewers engaged. She does everything within her to protect the office and supports her fellow officers out in the field by answering calls and viewing surveillance cameras while they approach possible suspects. Adding to the story and action are the mysteries the characters are trying to solve, such as who broke into the sheriff’s office and why. Visually, the film looks impressive, and the night shots, the gunfire and the action scenes are enjoyable. Nikki Amuka-Bird brings a likable presence to the screen as Tabby, even more so when she displays a fierce attitude, such as refusing to quit and stand down.
While Jericho Ridge provides plenty of brainless enjoyment in a manner familiar to Assault on Precinct 13, there are sadly a few minor issues. Firstly, the story does feel bloated and cramped, due to the many subplots for Tabby to tackle, including problems with her son and rumours that are beginning to resurface. Another minor issue relates to Tabby’s character, particularly at the film’s start. As she returns to work and chats with other officers, Tabby seems more skilled in all areas than everyone else, leaving the officers around her (including those who rank higher) looking dumb, which feels highly cliche.
Overall, if you’re a fan of movies like Assault on Precinct 13, you’ll be happy to know that Jericho Ridge shares a similar concept. The film’s lead character, Tabby, is very likable and well-performed by Nikki Amuka-Bird. Although the story takes place in one location, the film keeps the viewers engaged and thrilled through the violence, gunfire and well-executed action scenes. Plus, the odd twists and turns in the plot are also welcomed; however, some subplots make the film feel crowded. While the movie’s premise may not be entirely original, I still find it entertaining and satisfying. Regardless, it is a solid follow-up feature from director Will Gilbey.
0 Comments