Freestyle (2023) review: Botched up crime-thriller

In Freestyle, Diego, a rapper, turns back to a life of crime when he is unable to pay off the recording studio for his new single. The crime-thriller film is now streaming on Netflix.

Story

Diego (Maciej Musialowski) is a rapper with past ties to crime. Although he has left those days behind, he is constantly reminded of his gangster father.

When he is unable to pay the recording studio for a new single because his friend, Flour, stole a microphone, he has to arrange money.

With no ethical means in sight, Diego decides to re-enter the life he once knew. He tries supplying cocaine but is betrayed by someone.

With dangerous individuals behind him, Diego continues to be betrayed and doesn’t know whom he can trust. Will he get out of the mess?

Performances

Musialowski tries his best and excels at playing Diego. His performance as the lead is one of the few highlights of the film.

Positives

The fast pace of the film keeps you indulged. From the very start of the film, there are multiple twists and turns. The revelation of Diego’s father is a well-thought-out plot point and works seamlessly.

Negatives

However, the execution is extremely chaotic. Characters are introduced left, right and centre without enough context or background. 

The frantic pacing can leave you confused about what’s happening exactly. The narrative needed more explanation. It feels very rushed.

The entire rapping aspect of the film takes a backseat after the start and has absolutely no relevance to the storyline. It could have been used creatively to elevate the film.

Diego should have been introduced in a better manner with more information about his background. It’s hard to be invested in the character.

Verdict 

Freestyle has a premise that has potential but ends up being a mishmash of scenes that are thrown at the viewers. It ends up being a passable title.

Freestyle
Freestyle (2023) review: Botched up crime-thriller 1

Director: Maciej Bochniak

Date Created: 2023-09-13 16:54

Editor's Rating:
2

Also Read: Class Act (2023) review: A passable depiction of Tapie’s life

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