Damaged (2024) User Reviews

Slow burn, obvious clues missed, largely dissappointing

[forjunkmailhere · 4/10 · 12 April 2024]

Movie in English and modern times, set in Scotland, but apart from the establishing shots, it's not possible to confirm location by watching the movie.

Plot: Unlikely investigation of Chicago police office being transfered to "Scotland" to conclude an investigation into a grisly serial killer who's kill signature follows through to Scotland.

What new in the movie genre is the slow burn on the plot. Well sit back, this one takes slow burn to new heights. The Scottish detective stumbles along and draqs the viewer with him and a yawn fest.

The resolve is as unsatisfying as the logic and missed clues pepering the movie. Jackon's performance is way below the standard we hold for him, and it does put a dissappointing stamp on a dissappointing outing.

I am a big fan of both Samuel L Jackson AND Vincent Cassel, but this movie flopped.

[imseeg · 4/10 · 13 April 2024]

I had to see this movie, because it featured two of my favorite actors, Samuel L Jackson and Vincent Cassel, but what disappointment it all turned out to be...

The bad: this movie was cheaply made and it shows! Everything from photography to sound and supporting actors looks and is mediocre. The only good thing going for it are these 2 stellar actors, but even they cant elevate a cheaply made product into something worht watching.

More bad: there is NO real supsense or thrill. And that is the whole point of this sort of movie. It should have been exciting, but it turned into quite a sleeping pill. And what's with Vincent Cassel trying to talk English? Kinda cringeworthy...

I like Samuel Jackson but...

[CoolRam · 4/10 · 19 April 2024]

Samuel Jackson's name still sell. I bought it. Bad buy, though.

Some scenes are too focused on him not to the main character. If you finish the movie you will know that Gionni Capaldi is the main character. And he is not even in the poster. 😊 It starts good then slowly drift away, then come back in near ending. The storyline is so common. But the actors do well. But like i said, is so focused on Samuel Jackson, in his so so acting in this movie. I can give them credit to that finale twist.

I love justice serve in endings. Bad guys winning. I don't want to see it in the movies, too. Maybe, it's just me.

Predictable and unsatisfying.

[ja-71458 · 3/10 · 12 April 2024]

I couldn't say why the writers wanted Samuel L Jackson in Scotland. Possibly Gianni Capaldi, one of the three writers and co-star, simply wanted to meet him.

A local Scottish detective (Capaldi) has a US cop (Jackson) help with a case due to the similarity of some murders in the States. He then enlists the help of a Frenchman (Cassel) and former colleague who happens to be in London and the unlikely trio attempt to solve the mystery as more murders occur.

The premise is implausible. Jackson phones in his performance. Foreboding moments are neon signs. The twists and ending are unsatisfying.

There are a couple of good performances from Laura Haddock and Kate Dickie as the wife of the Scottish detective and detective Kessler respectively but they by no means lift the film above average.

It really was an unsatisfying conclusion. In itself the reason for the review.

Oh dear.

[mattw1 · 2/10 · 21 April 2024]

Oh dear. I am not sure which high school drama class was responsible for this travesty of a movie but it is unquestionably one of the worst films I have seen in the past decade. An absolutely ridiculous script with terrible acting. This abomination relies on loud scary sound effects, ominous music and recurring dismembered body parts in an effort to retain the viewer's attention or attempt to have some sort of cinematic relevance. There are no redeeming qualities to this film, it fails on all fronts - even the car chase actions seems are sophomoric and absolutely laughable - like the college kids who produced this disaster were excited to get their hands on an Audi and Beemer for the weekend. Incredibly bad.

Why is SLJ in this?

[celt007 · 3/10 · 13 April 2024]

Having SLJ in this movie was a waste of a talent , they failed to make it interesting . Vincent Cassel just basically walking around while Jackson is in scenes .

This movie is dumb and the writing is bad directing equally as bad , this is like a bad b movie you see in tv on Saturday afternoons .

Not suspenseful at all I was very annoyed watching this film . The buildup is just slow and awkward the car chase at the end has death metal soundtrack it's so bad . The editing is ridiculous. The story seems like it was written by someone in high school . I think anyone who pays to see this should get a refund .

Had some potential

[petertobin-72039 · 3/10 · 21 April 2024]

I think the storyline could actually have been made into a decent movie but in the end they managed to produce one of the worse movies I have ever seen. I normally do a good job of managing to avoid really bad movies by I was lured in by the Aish list cast and the synopsis and ended up watching this without looking at IMDB first. I started off wondering why a Scottish policeman carried around a gun but by the end, the direction and the editing had been so poor that in the end I didn't care what happened. I did manage to guess who the baddy was but only because it couldn't really have been anyone else.

Don't get excited

[deon-24 · 4/10 · 13 April 2024]

This movie has so many possibilities but poor direction and some editing flaws the overall experience. It is a perfect example where a "big name" is used just to boost a story or production. I feel for Samuel Jackson here, as he should be awarded for his tenacity and perseverance during this stumbling-along story

Don't get me wrong - there are other notable performances too, but they don't get the credit they deserve - it is all about using SJ's persona. It is a real pity, but this is not the only movie that has used this trait

As for the story itself - well written and executed although the surprise element was a little obvious towards the middle of the movie. The storyline could have done with some punch here and there to counter the slow burning and sometimes awkward watching experience (I fell asleep twice)

For the editing - well, this trait of leaving some scenes hanging for three or four seconds longer than necessary is not doing the experience any good. When a scene tells its story, MOVE ON!

The directing is OK although some scenes make you wonder why? Perhaps creating goofs on purpose? The murder scenes are rather irritating from a factual point of view. They are TOO obviously fake and the prop guys could have done so much more to make the scenes more accurate and believable. Using SJ they could have learnt from "7even" a bit

Overall just a popcorn-Saturday-rainy-night movie.

Like the movie title, damaged...

[frank-liesenborgs · 6/10 · 12 April 2024]

The movie "Damaged" features Samuel L. Jackson as seasoned detective Dan Lawson, sent from Chicago to Scotland to investigate a hideous murder resembling unsolved cases from his past. In Scotland, he reunites with his former partner, Walker Bravo (played by Vincent Cassel), now retired. Together with local detective Glen Boyd (played by Gianni Capaldi), they investigate a series of killings where victims are dismembered and posed with religious symbolism. Suspects include a suspicious neighbor and a mechanic linked to a fringe religious group. Jackson delivers his typical theatrical performance, often seen with a bottomless bottle of whiskey (a small one). Cassel's attempt at an American accent is funny, while Capaldi is trying to match Jackson's colorfulness. Technically, the film captures Scotland's impressive beauty sufficiently. However, despite its attempt to keep the audience guessing, "Damaged" ultimately fails to provide a convincing conclusion, leaving audiences to question the film's purpose and the actors' motivations, particularly Jackson's involvement, possibly driven by financial gain or a desire for a scenic trip to the Highlands. Strong acting performance from Vincent Cassel and Gianni Capaldi, the usual Samuel Jackson performance (not outstanding) and that was it for me. Nothing outstanding, a plot that is kind of predictable with holes to fill. We do not get to know the different characters better etc. Feel that a lot more could have been done here. However, I did enjoy the movie.

Meh

[sanrionislove · 2/10 · 15 April 2024]

This movie featured a moderately decent storyline, along with an exceptional cast. However it was all let down by the worst shoe-horned plot twist slapped on to the end that I have ever seen in my life (and I have watched a lot of pretty bad whodunnits in my time).

I disagree with other reviews about the quality of the photography, sound and supporting cast. You can tell a lot of heart went into this movie, but, as noted above, the plot twist right at the end felt very much like an afterthought, a way to subvert the expectations on who the real killer was.

Still, I have to give credit to Samuel L Jackson and Vincent Cassel for a great performance with the ending they were given.

Well done, slow paced fiction

[apg123 · 10/10 · 16 April 2024]

A comfortably slow paced, dark themed, fictional story. Well filmed, well edited, well played. There's subtle humour and strong characters, and overall the way it was done is appealing enough for me to have watched it.

Like almost all movies nowadays there's nothing new here, and more bloodshed than necessary. Some people might appreciate the showing of bloody limbs stacked together, as if this was the deli section of the supermarket. For me as a vegan however that's absolutely unnecessary and doesn't add anything to the movie.

Also, as some have complained, parts of the plot is implausible and unrealistic, but then it's not a documentary, is it? It's just a made up story, made for entertainment purposes. And as such it excels, in my book.

At 1 hour 30 something minutes I would call this an instant classic and an enjoyable no-brainer on a weekday night, or even on a stay-at-home Saturday evening.

Classic Thriller with Capable Actors

[nightringer-76840 · 6/10 · 14 April 2024]

This is a classic mystery thriller with who dunnit games. The best thing about Damaged (2024) is the actors exchanging their art of acting. Jackson, Cassel, Capaldi, and Hannah played their roles expertly. Exchanging words while expanding their characters even further.

For those who wants action scenes, wrong film. This3 who wants intellectual games of chess, this is for you.

The director played his budget well, focussing on good actors and practical old school visual effects. Right from the start, Damaged (2024) hooked me in and I couldn't atop watching until the end, along with some 'Wait, What?" moments.

Cheap, and...

[hz_ · 2/10 · 13 April 2024]

Cheap story with poor storytelling and visual for a cheap twist lol.

Samuel L Jackson in this movie couldn't carry the whole movie alone with his regular acting in here... This movie just selling his name, and I feel pity for Gianni Capaldi, because this movie protagonist is actually him but he isn't in the poster lol, proving my point this movie is selling Samuel's name...

What I hate in this movie is there are so many evidence wall in this movie, usually it supposed to make this movie looks cool and great, but when it came to poor movie like this one, it doesn't work...

My only compliment for this movie is, this isn't as bad as The Collective movie with Tyrese Gibson, I still watch until the "cheap twist" ending in here lol...

I wouldn't bother to watch if I know this movie is this bad, its not worth watch...

Not Quite Broken, But Needs Repairs

[arsalanweb · 4/10 · 12 April 2024]

Damaged tries to weave a suspenseful story, but it suffers from some gaping plot holes and predictable twists. The acting is decent, but the characters themselves are a little one-dimensional. The film's saving grace, however, is the ending. Leaving serial killer Dan Lawson still at large injects a genuine sense of unease. We're left with the chilling knowledge that this monster is still out there, and that possibility keeps the film from being a complete wash.

However, that single positive doesn't erase the rest of the movie's issues. Pacing drags at times, and the reveal of the culprit feels rushed. Overall, "Damaged" is a watchable thriller, but it's unlikely to leave a lasting impression. If you're looking for a genuinely suspenseful movie with a killer on the loose, you might want to keep searching.

Not a Satisfying Ending

[drthunderboltlight · 5/10 · 20 April 2024]

I watched this movie at my local movie theater. Looks to be a limited release film. I enjoyed it for what it was. I just wished there was some loose ends sorted out. I highly doubt that there will be a sequel to this. I'd be thrilled if there was. I think this would've worked better as a limited television series. But with a much better ending. I'm surprised Samuel L. Jackson signed up for this film. Definitely feels like a straight to video kind of movie. I would love a part 2 to this. Just to make the ending to this one less crappier. It just feels unfinished to me. In my dreams, I suppose...

Calling this a turd is an insult to turds.

[kdrobbinscat · 2/10 · 20 April 2024]

Seriously. This movie is bad. There are tons of plot holes and nothing about it makes sense. There is a plot twist at the end that only adds more holes to this Swiss cheese of a film.

From the very beginning, nothing makes sense. A Chicago police officer l, played by Samuel L Jackson, travels to Scotland to help locate a alleged serial killer who shares signature keys as one that struck in America. Sounds interesting, right? I assure you it isn't.

He arrives and tries to assist in searching for the alleged killer, but the suspect is a bit too convenient and the connection to the crimes is never really established. Cops and suspect play cat and mouse. The plot goes out of the window and, I dunno, man. It derails and some weirdness happens. Then the movie ends without answering for itself.

I cannot believe I paid to see this. I want my money and two hours of my time back.

Real damaged - Complete waste of time

[carolsba-14065 · 1/10 · 28 April 2024]

I created this IMDB account to rate this movie because the disappointment is too much.

The 1 star goes to the Casting Director.

The Soundtrack - terrible The film Photography - inconsistent. Scenes with different weather/colors/landscapes.

The Script - truly poorly written.

Some parts just didn't make any sense.

Direction - there is still time to try and make it in another indistry.

The Storyline - could have had potential if not so obvious.

Last scene green screen studio instead of real landscape. (What?) Plot twist - absurdly cliche.

Even the actors Scottish accent sounded fake and like they were pushing it.

Bore Fest Murder Who Done-It!

[cynet-52332 · 1/10 · 14 April 2024]

Two leading Hollywood actors couldn't save this dud of a movie.

Slow paced movie to start off with and plot holes galore in truth.

John Hannah makes a good creepy Tommy tank weirdo who carries the role of red herring.

Vincent Cassel looks completely bored in this role and he has every right to be because the script is rather weak in terms of delivery.

How hard would it have taken too work out the killer who spent time in Chicago killing and then Scotland? Easy to trace a suspect with international pedigree but the writers ignore all this.

Samuel Jackson is a great actor but he is given little dialogue or any real effort to show his talent in this movie sadly.

Your be better watching an old mystery who done it movie made years ago than watching this pile of cow dung.

Thriller to not be missed

[xermanu · 7/10 · 13 April 2024]

This is a clear definition of what a thriller should be like. It has all the ingredients and delivers exactly what it promises. Story has a few twists and turns into a whodunnit. Good acting and some very nice scenery. Might not be suitable for those impacted by some blood and bodies on screen, but good thing is that's just happening in a few scenes, where you can look away and will not miss the plot

Definitely not the best movie ever, but I don't get why all the hate and low ratings. Not every suspense movie can be Se7en or sports movie be like Rocky. It's enjoyable and great to move away from all the superheroes movie.

Whomever chose the music, should consider another career.

[Treedle · 2/10 · 16 April 2024]

The acting was so-so. Samuel and Vincent can keep it going long enough to peek some interest, instead of dozing off. But the movie was ruined by the intern in charge of audio. Static noise in conversational scenes, background noise louder than the actors, really distracted away from the immersion. As well as really out of place music. In a good flick you wouldnt notice the music, as it adds to the suspense or drama. Not in this movie, here you'll notice the music and start realising it sounds out of place. Not to mention badly edited, and not fitting the vibe. Because of the music and audio 2/10.

What a great thriller. Must see!

[caledoniarelations · 10/10 · 19 April 2024]

I really enjoyed this. I am a big fan of the genre. This reminds me of Seven, Bone Collector and Zodiac. If you like this genre you'll love Damaged. What a twist at the end, would never have worked that out. Don't want to give it away but I read some reviews which said the ending was predictable and I think they are fabricating it all. This has one of the best endings which made the movie so worth while. Jackson is so charismatic he was brilliant. Loved the Scottish contingent, Gianni Capaldi, Kate Dickie and John Hannah. This is a must see. Was great to see Scotland shown in the movie, it always adds character to the movie.

Great B Movie

[therealjaysmoke · 7/10 · 15 April 2024]

Ahhhh the slow fade! It's really nice to see how a veteran actor such as Samuel and Vincent would partner up with an international film crew to help them get their shine on. I mean trust me, if it had not been for these 2, esp Samuel on the covers, I would never have watched this movie and that would have caused me to miss out of some good Scottish actors.

With that said, this is clearly a high level B movie but that didn't take away from the quality of story and like I said, acting. I also enjoyed the twist at the end which was nearly ruined by the extended unnecessary ending. All in all, I liked it. I liked how unapologetic they were with the crime scenes. NB. If you can't stand blood or gore crime scenes, this movie isn't for you. 🤣

Too tough to swallow

[dongillette · 5/10 · 18 April 2024]

A bit of a flop for me.

None of the characters seemed likeable, there was too much "accidental and forced" relationship drama that interrupted the storyline (which wasn't all that great to begin with), and there was no reason behind some of the character attributes. You'll see Samuel L. Jackson's character drinking constantly from scene one, so it's not a spoiler, but what does it add to the plot?

And speaking of Jackson, here's a good double standard for you: The retirement age for ANY Chicago cop is 63 and yet Samuel L. Jackson is 75. But somehow Leonardo DiCaprio caught hell for being too old for his role in "Killers of the Flower Moon." Now, I love both these guys--but Jackson gets a free pass because???

total trash with few celeb actors trying to give it merit

[tohmsono · 2/10 · 18 April 2024]

Before, we used to have TV movies that watered down the quality of the movie offerings to the general public, but now we have all these online subscriber TV channels that fight to fill their slots with "quality" movies and this kind of trash is what we get. I mean I get it: you're trying to produce as many films as you can, but you have budget limitations. So, in essence, here is how it works: there is an abundance of scripts out there so you pick a 1/2 decent one for a few coin, you sign up a few big names for their name apeal but do not demand a lot of on-screen time for them so they can come cheap. So, you pick up 1 or 2 name actors, shoot their scenes over the weekend, and fill the rest of the movie with neatly arranged garbage and viola, you have a Netflix movie recipe for us two waste time on. Thank god I was ironing my laundry while watching this trash otherwise 2 hours would have been totally wasted. Avoid this guys, its just not good.

Cheesie, flawed, sub-mediocre Brit serial-killer thriller

[danieljfarthing · 4/10 · 17 April 2024]

In Brit thriller "Damaged" US cop Samuel L Jackson travels to Scotland to reunite with his former partner Vincent Cassel in helping local cop Gianni Capaldi investigate two gruesome murders (possibly by John Hannah) that are identical to an unsolved string of serial killings in Chicago years earlier. Debut director Terry McDonough is unexceptional / uninspired, while the all-important screenplay (from Capaldi, Paul Aniello & Koji Steven Sakai (of whom only the latter's written a movie before)) twists slightly more than expected but is still clunky & flawed. This is cheesie, sub-mediocre fare from the Jackson cash-in career slide-out. It's a turd. Flush it.