Ballad of a Small Player

Crime cinema with the understanding that the genre isn't about the crime, but the system that creates it. The director works in the tradition of smart genre films. Unhurried, undiminished.

Tension builds methodically and doesn't deflate toward the end — rare for the genre. A couple of twists are genuine, not tacked on. The ending is honest.

Good for an evening viewing with someone who values genre cinema made with intelligence.