Suicide by Cop

2024

IMDb RATING

YOUR RATING

Jim Smith (Vernon Wells) was the pride of the precinct, a heroic cop who'd saved lives over and over. But when he awakens in purgatory, he's stuck and the only way out is by convincing Sgt. ... Read allJim Smith (Vernon Wells) was the pride of the precinct, a heroic cop who'd saved lives over and over. But when he awakens in purgatory, he's stuck and the only way out is by convincing Sgt. Yeshua that his life deserves to be finished. As they re-watch the evidence of his life, a... Read allJim Smith (Vernon Wells) was the pride of the precinct, a heroic cop who'd saved lives over and over. But when he awakens in purgatory, he's stuck and the only way out is by convincing Sgt. Yeshua that his life deserves to be finished. As they re-watch the evidence of his life, analyzing each choice and each fact put before them his glories, his faith and his flaws ar... Read all

See production info at IMDbPro

IMDb RATING

9.2/10

YOUR RATING

16User reviews

See production info at IMDbPro

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User reviews16

9.250

Featured reviews

10Arslans-01

Emotional Dynamite With a Slow Burn Fuse

Suicide by Cop builds its tragedy methodically, making the inevitable conclusion all the more devastating. The film's power comes from its intimate focus on one man's unraveling, showing how isolation and despair can lead to unthinkable decisions. Cinematography immerses us in the protagonist's deteriorating mental state through disorienting angles and a muted color palette. What could have been exploitative instead becomes a profound character study, with a lead performance that deserves awards recognition. The film's greatest achievement is making us understand a decision we'd rather condemn, forcing empathy where we'd prefer judgment. This is challenging, important filmmaking that lingers long after viewing.

9Smitj-7

A Police Procedural for the Afterlife

This ingenious film takes the familiar cop drama format and elevates it to spiritual dimensions. Wells' performance as Jim Smith is a revelation - equal parts tough cop and vulnerable soul. The celestial courtroom framing gives new weight to every flashback, transforming standard police action into moral evidence. The film's structure brilliantly withholds key information, forcing us to constantly reevaluate Smith's character. The sparse production design creates an appropriately timeless atmosphere for this existential drama. The interrogation scenes build unbearable tension as Smith's life is dissected choice by choice. By the final judgment, you'll have experienced one of the most unique and rewarding films of the year - part character study, part spiritual inquiry, and entirely unforgettable.

9johns-9228

The Year's Most Thought-Provoking Character Study

Suicide by Cop proves that great drama needs little more than two outstanding actors and profound questions to explore. Wells is magnificent as the cop on trial for his soul, his performance ranging from defiant to broken across the film's runtime. The Sgt. Yeshua character serves as perfect foil, his calm interrogation exposing cracks in Smith's moral armor. The nonlinear storytelling creates brilliant dramatic irony - we know outcomes before we understand their causes. The sparse setting focuses all attention on the psychological and spiritual battle at the film's core. What could have been a stagey premise instead becomes utterly cinematic through sheer acting power and directorial confidence. A masterclass in economical, impactful storytelling.

10FarahS-31

The Year's Most Uncomfortably Necessary Film

Suicide by Cop forces viewers to confront difficult truths about mental health, policing, and personal responsibility. The film's power comes from its restraint - it presents the situation with documentary-like objectivity, allowing the tragedy to speak for itself. The lead performance is astonishing in its subtlety, showing a man's unraveling through small gestures rather than melodrama. Supporting characters are equally nuanced, particularly the responding officers caught in an impossible situation. The cinematography creates a sense of claustrophobic dread that mirrors the protagonist's mindset. This isn't an easy watch, but it's an essential one - the kind of film that changes how you see the world.

9Finad-1

A Masterclass in Moral Complexity

This isn't just a movie - it's a moral obstacle course that will leave you emotionally and intellectually drained in the best possible way. Wells disappears into the role of Jim Smith, his face becoming a roadmap of regret and defiance. The film's unconventional structure - bouncing between purgatory and pivotal life moments - creates a fascinating puzzle of cause and effect. Supporting characters from Smith's life appear as both witnesses and manifestations of his conscience. The sparse score and shadowy cinematography create an appropriately otherworldly atmosphere. By the climactic judgment scene, you'll find yourself arguing both for and against Smith's redemption. This is the kind of challenging, adult-oriented filmmaking we see too rarely today.