Netflix’s new thriller, The Whisper Man, delves into the chilling world of serial killers as it follows a father and son embroiled in a perilous investigation after a child goes missing. The film stars Adam Scott as Tom Kennedy, a crime novelist and widower, who returns to his hometown with his young son, Jake. Their arrival coincides with a string of child disappearances linked to a notorious killer whose methods echo those of an incarcerated serial murderer.
Robert De Niro appears as Pete, a retired detective and Tom’s estranged father, who is drawn back into the fray when Jake goes missing. Pete had previously aided in capturing the imprisoned killer and now must face his past. The investigation also involves Detective Amanda, portrayed by Michelle Monaghan, as the group strives to uncover the truth behind the mystery.
Based on Alex North’s 2019 novel, the film weaves together classic thriller elements such as missing children, serial killers, cryptic clues, and psychological tension. Despite its intriguing premise, the movie falls short in building genuine suspense due to its predictable storyline and conventional plot twists.
De Niro delivers a subdued performance that appears somewhat detached, while Scott struggles to convincingly portray Tom’s emotional struggles. The film’s dark visual style, coupled with its uneven pacing, detracts from its overall impact.
In an attempt to ramp up the tension, the final act features a series of confrontations and revelations. However, the action lacks excitement, and the resolution fails to deliver a satisfying conclusion. Ultimately, The Whisper Man presents a familiar serial-killer mystery but lacks the distinctiveness to set it apart from others in the genre.