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Writer's pictureDan Brooks

"Detained (2024): Secrets, Scuffles, and a Decrepit Precinct—Oh My!"

In the dead of night, Rebecca wakes in a decrepit precinct, accused of a hit-and-run. But a deadly scuffle reveals a sinister plot. With nowhere to turn, she must uncover the truth before it consumes her. But Rebecca harbors secrets darker than they know.



Alright, my fellow movie buffs, strap in for a bumpy ride through the gritty, dimly lit corridors of Detained. This new thriller starring Abbie Cornish, Laz Alonso, and Moon Bloodgood offers a night of suspense, mystery, and the kind of plot twists that make you go, “Wait, what?” Set in a decrepit precinct, this film tries to keep you guessing while also keeping you on the edge of your seat. Spoiler alert: you might need to bring your own cushion.


The movie kicks off with Rebecca (Abbie Cornish) waking up in a rundown police precinct, accused of a hit-and-run. Naturally, she’s confused and angry—two emotions that are pretty much standard issue in these scenarios. But before she can shout, “I need a lawyer!” a deadly scuffle reveals a much more sinister plot. With nowhere to turn, Rebecca must uncover the truth before it consumes her. And trust me, she’s got secrets darker than your ex’s soul.


What I Liked (Or, The Reasons I Didn’t Sneak Out for More Popcorn)

Plot Twists (Kind of): There were some attempts at plot twists. Sure, for a veteran movie lover, they’re about as surprising as finding out the sky is blue, but hey, they tried. Navigating them is like doing a maze for toddlers—easy, but still kind of fun.


Fresh Faces: It’s always nice to see some new talent mixed in with familiar faces. There are a few actors here that I’d like to see more of, assuming they survive the low-budget horror-thriller circuit.


Believable Acting: Despite the shaky plot and budget constraints, some of the acting was surprisingly believable. Abbie Cornish, in particular, gives it her all, even when the script doesn’t quite deserve it.


What I Disliked (Or, The Reasons I Almost Sneaked Out for More Popcorn)

Low Budget Vibes: The low budget was evident in the sets, but I’ll give them credit—they did their best to work it into the story. Still, there were moments where it felt like they were filming in someone's basement.


Predictable Reveal: The big reveal was about as hard to figure out as a children’s jigsaw puzzle. For a mystery movie, this is a death sentence. Maybe some people will be fooled, but if you’ve seen more than three thrillers in your life, you’ll see it coming a mile away.


Shallow Characters and Poor Timing: The mildly interesting concept is hampered by ill-timed twists and characters with all the depth of a kiddie pool. There’s no real incentive for emotional investment in who lives or dies, which makes it hard to care about the outcome.


Extra Info (Or, Fun Facts to Impress Your Friends at Your Next Movie Night)

Quick Shoot: The entire filming of Detained took just 20 days. That’s right, folks—20 days. I’ve had leftovers that lasted longer. It’s impressive in a way, but also kind of explains the rough edges.


Final Thoughts and Rating

Detained is a decent thriller with some high points and plenty of low ones. It’s got plot twists, but they’re predictable. It’s got new faces, but they’re swimming in shallow character pools. It’s got suspense, but it’s marred by budget constraints and a less-than-stellar script. If you’re looking for a mindless thriller to pass the time, it’ll do the job. But don’t expect it to blow your mind.


My final rating? 6.8/10. It’s worth a watch if you’re a fan of the genre, but keep your expectations in check.




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