Netflix thriller shoots to top of the charts despite ‘underwhelming' reviews
Netflix's new murder mystery film is currently dominating the streaming charts, despite receiving mixed reviews from critics.
Hailing from Spain, this intriguing thriller stars a familiar face who becomes embroiled in a high-profile murder case.
A Widow's Game features Pan's Labyrinth's child star Ivana Baquero, now all grown up as Maje, the wife of murder victim Antonio Navarro Cerdán. Carmen Machi, Tristán Ulloa, Pablo Molinero, Pepe Ocio and Álex Gadea also star.
Based on a real-life murder in 2017, Maje becomes the prime suspect in the fatal stabbing and the sensational headlines expose her private life.
A synopsis reads: 'When a man is found dead, the investigation shatters his widow's perfect facade and exposes a hidden double life in this thriller based on real events."
This true crime drama unfortunately hasn't been a hit with critics, but Netflix subscribers clearly can't get enough as it's currently at the top of the streamer's film chart worldwide.
Collider admitted the thriller 'doesn't really hit the mark', calling it an "underwhelming whodunnit".
Decider called it 'a slightly-better-than-middling drama, professionally executed from a technical standpoint but a bit thin of screenplay.'
And LeisureByte said in their mixed review: 'I enjoyed watching A Widow's Game, although I found myself a little confused with the documentary/fictional style of the storytelling. I felt like it clashed a bit and left to mystery in the middle.
'However, it's the performances and the characters' complexities that shine for me.'
Despite the middling professional reviews, some subscribers have been captivated by the stunning investigation.
A four-star Google review says: 'Despite these minor flaws, A Widow's Game succeeds in keeping audiences engaged.
'The strong performances, solid writing, and the eerie fact that it may be based on true events make it a worthy watch for crime drama fans. It's a chilling reminder that truth can sometimes be more unsettling than fiction.'
While a five-star review took the praise a step further: 'A Widow's Game is an absolute masterclass in storytelling, direction, and performance.
'Based on a true event, this gripping film pulls you into its web of intrigue from the very first scene and doesn't let go until the final frame.'
Will you make up your own mind and give A Widow's Game a try this week?
A Widow's Game is available to stream on Netflix.
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