Review Published 27th March 2026

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A drug deal gone wrong lands Ava in jail for two years.

Ava (Maika Monroe) secretly specialises in all things drug-related. During one of Ava’s dealings, a huge surprise unfolds, and the police soon raid the location, sending Ava running. Although she attempts to escape quickly, the police capture her, sending her directly to jail to serve time for the next two years.

Ava’s new start collapses, forcing her on the run to prove her innocence and protect her family.

Released from prison, Ava has a second chance at life. She begins working at the rodeo grounds, caring for animals and cleaning up after major events. However, Ava doesn’t just want to work at the arena- she’s attempting to return to her old ways and rebuild her drug operations.  However, her old drug partners, along with her twin brother, decline her involvement, seeing her as a high risk given her track record and recent release from prison. As Ava’s plans fall apart, things only worsen. When she witnesses a brutal murder and is pinned for the crime, she goes on the run, doing everything possible not only to prove her innocence but, more importantly, to protect her family. What will Ava do to protect herself and those she loves?

In Cold Light blends crime, thriller, and drama, directed by Maxime Giroux.

In Cold Light is a film that blends multiple genres, including crime, thriller, and drama, with minor action elements throughout. The film is directed by Maxime Giroux, whose past work includes Felix and Meira (2014), Norbourg (2022), and more.

Maika Monroe impresses, but Ava is hard to root for, while Maxime Giroux delivers strong atmosphere and style.

Personally, I have been a long-time fan of actress Maika Monroe, and once again, she delivers, especially during the film’s dramatic and tense moments. Sadly, although her performance is one of the film’s strongest aspects, the character of Ava is difficult to support, as her poor choices lead her down a path full of hard decisions and tragedy.  This is my first time experiencing anything from Giroux, the director, and I admired his style and visual choices. Given that the film is mostly set at night, I particularly enjoyed its tone and atmosphere, as well as the various locations throughout.

The story is uneven, with a weak start, a stronger middle, and a disappointing ending.

The story is passable, and while the film introduces high stakes and family drama, it ultimately feels quite mediocre. Making matters worse, the opening feels rocky and unstable. I did find the film took flight in the second act, only to lead into a disappointing, fizzled finale.

In Cold Light is uneven and forgettable, with strong visuals and a solid performance from Maika Monroe.

Overall, In Cold Light is a passable thriller that stumbles out of the gate with a clunky, somewhat vague opening. While the second act introduces genuinely engaging stakes, it ultimately builds to a weak, unfulfilling finale. The story itself isn’t particularly fresh, feeling serviceable at best, and in the end, it’s largely forgettable and lacking real impact.  As always, Maika Monroe delivers a compelling and grounded performance, though her character never feels as interesting or layered as it could have been. Visually, the film is a highlight, with its largely nighttime setting creating a strong, moody atmosphere and cinematography that captures that darkness quite well.

In Cold Light (2025) is Now Available on Digital thanks to Umbrella!

About the Reviewer

Peter Walkden

Film writer and curator with a deep passion for cinema, genre filmmaking, and physical media. Exploring new releases, cult favourites, and overlooked films, with a strong focus on atmosphere, storytelling, and the theatrical experience.

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