# **Unhinged: The Russell Crowe Thriller Taking Over Netflix**
While Russell Crowe isn’t reprising his famed role in the upcoming *Gladiator* sequel, he’s making a significant impact on Netflix with the 2020 psychological thriller *Unhinged*. This previously overlooked film has recently climbed to the upper echelons of Netflix’s viewership, outpacing even major original series and recent hits like *Bad Boys: Ride or Die*. So, what accounts for the unexpected revival of this thriller from the pandemic period?
## **Plot Synopsis: A Bad Day Escalates**
*Unhinged* centers around Tom Cooper, played by Russell Crowe, a man teetering on the brink of madness. Following a seemingly trivial road rage episode, Cooper embarks on a terrifying mission to teach Rachel Flynn (played by Caren Pistorius), a single parent, a chilling lesson on what it truly means to endure a terrible day. The narrative swiftly morphs from a minor honk in traffic to an electrifying game of cat and mouse, as Cooper obsessively stalks Rachel and her child through the bustling streets of the city.
Directed by Derrick Borte (*The Joneses*) and scripted by Carl Ellsworth (*Disturbia*), *Unhinged* is a gripping, action-heavy thriller that keeps audiences captivated. The supporting cast features Jimmi Simpson, Gabriel Bateman, and Devyn Tyler, enriching the film’s chaotic storyline.
## **Mixed Reception, Yet Crowe Excels**
Though *Unhinged* garnered mixed reviews upon its release, it has experienced a resurgence on Netflix. The film maintains a 48% score on Rotten Tomatoes and a 6/10 on IMDb, with critics showing varied opinions on its quality. Some lauded Crowe’s portrayal of a crazed, unhinged antagonist, while others contended that the film lacked depth and substance.
CNN’s Brian Lowry characterized *Unhinged* as “an anti-blockbuster, a small-scale film with a nostalgic drive-in vibe that translates well for home viewing.” In spite of its shortcomings, Crowe’s depiction of a man spiraling into chaos is definitively engaging, and the film’s unrelenting tempo guarantees that the thrills never subside.
## **What’s Behind the Surge in Popularity?**
What’s causing *Unhinged* to dominate Netflix all of a sudden? Several elements could be influencing this:
1. **Russell Crowe’s Charisma**: Crowe remains a cherished personality in Hollywood, and his powerful performance in *Unhinged* is a significant attraction for admirers of his craft.
2. **Nostalgia from the Pandemic**: Released during the initial phase of the COVID-19 pandemic, *Unhinged* may have been ignored by many viewers. Now, as more individuals dive into streaming services for entertainment, the film is reaching a fresh audience.
3. **Thriller Attraction**: Psychological thrillers have consistently been a favored genre, and *Unhinged* taps into the everyday dread of crossing paths with a stranger who oversteps boundaries. The film’s straightforward premise is both simple and impactful, making it an appealing option for those in search of a quick thrill.
## **Watch It Now**
If you’re seeking a gripping, fast-paced thriller featuring a remarkable performance from Russell Crowe, *Unhinged* deserves your attention. It may not be a favorite among critics, but it’s undeniably entertaining, and its current success on Netflix illustrates a continued interest in this type of high-stakes psychological drama.
You can now stream *Unhinged* on Netflix and discover for yourself why this once-forgotten thriller is experiencing a revival.
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**Watch the Trailer**:
[UNHINGED – BE SAFE OUT THERE RETRO TRAILER](https://www.youtube.com/embed/GH-XdCC8z0w)
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**Sources**:
– Rotten Tomatoes: [Unhinged (2020)](https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/unhinged_2020)
– IMDb: [Unhinged (2020)](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10059518/)
– CNN Review: [Unhinged Review](https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/20/entertainment/unhinged-review/index.html)
