Spoiler-Free Review: Maggie Moore(s) (2023)
It’s not really a comedy or a mystery. It’s undecided.
So, this spoiler-free review of Maggie Moore(s) will function as an experiment of sorts. I’ve read the Top Critics’ reviews listed on Rotten Tomatoes and tried to find the most common critiques across them all. I suppose it was an exercise to improve my reading and analytical skills. Or it was an exercise in wasting time.
Rotten Tomatoes Consensus: Neither funny enough to recommend as a black comedy nor unpredictable enough to work as a mystery, Maggie Moore(s) is less than the sum of its parts.
My Consensus based on What I Read: Maggie Moore(s) is a genre mishmash, unable to decide whether it’s a comedy or crime drama, especially when specific plotlines like one on child pornography (yikes) are thrown into the mix.
Plot and Storyline
Maggie Moore(s) centers around the investigation led by police chief Jordan Sanders (Jon Hamm) into the murders of two women named Maggie Moore. The film combines elements of dark comedy, crime, and mystery, drawing inspiration from real-life events while adding its own fictionalized details.
Characters
Jon Hamm delivers an earnest and emotionally rich performance as Jordan Sanders, the determined police chief of a small town leading the murder investigation. Other noteworthy characters include:
- Jay Moore, who is entangled in illegal activities.
- Kosco, a deaf hitman.
- Rita, Jordan’s neighbor.
The chemistry between Hamm and Nick Mohammed, who portrays Jordan’s crime-solving partner, shines as a standout.
Themes and Motifs
Maggie Moore(s) explores marriage and relationships, portraying the institution through dysfunctional dynamics. The film also captures the essence of small-town life, depicting a charming and familiar atmosphere. Additionally, the concept of cover-ups and mistaken identity plays a significant role in driving the plot forward.
Tone and Genre
The film aims to blend dark comedy with crime and mystery, although it struggles to maintain a consistent tone. While the comedic aspects are present, darker and more serious plot points sometimes overshadow the humor. I mean, where’s the comedy in child pornography?
Directing and Cinematography
Dear old John Slattery, who played Roger Sterling in Mad Men, takes over directorial duties here. He does a fine job capturing the sun-soaked Southwestern setting and creating a visually engaging experience. The cinematography impresses with its use of New Mexico locations and shots of the desert landscapes.
The Verdict
Maggie Moore(s) only manages to entertain in moments, and that’s thanks to the performances of a talented cast. Besides that, the film lacks coherence and fails to fully embrace its potential as both a comedy and a mystery. Some pointed out clichéd elements, a lackluster script, and uninspired acting from certain quarters of the cast.
Basically, “Maggie Moore(s)” is just so-so. One review pointed out that it would be a decent flick to watch on a plane, but nothing more. Well, you can add train rides, too. Nonetheless, the performances of Jon Hamm and Nick Mohammed received praise.
The movie isn’t screening in Sri Lanka, so there’s no way for me to catch it just yet. I guess that’s why I decided to dig into the reviews online. If you’re interested in other movies, there are more spoiler-free reviews out there.
