A tale of obsession, tragedy, and the cost of human compassion
Sharp Corner, starring the incomparable Ben Foster, is a psychological drama that delves into the unsettling transformation of a family man as he becomes consumed by his fixation on saving lives. The sharp corner in front of his suburban house serves as both a physical and metaphorical battleground where tragedy strikes repeatedly, pushing him into an abyss of morbid obsession. While the premise promises a deeply profound exploration of human vulnerability, the execution leaves much to be desired.
The film’s most luminous aspect is Ben Foster’s riveting portrayal of the protagonist. Foster embodies a character whose slow descent into obsession is both haunting and nuanced. His ability to convey the mounting despair, flickers of hope, and eventual unravelling of his psyche is mesmerising. It is Foster who anchors the film, drawing the viewer into his character’s turmoil even when the narrative falters.
The cinematography is another highlight, effectively capturing the bleakness of the setting. The sharp corner itself is portrayed almost as a living entity, shrouded in shadows and rain, amplifying the ominous presence it holds in the protagonist’s life. The visuals are evocative, with muted tones that mirror the dark themes explored in the film.
Despite its compelling premise, Sharp Corner struggles with pacing and focus.
The plot often meanders, lingering too long on repetitive scenes that fail to advance the story. While the protagonist’s obsession is meant to be the centrepiece, the film leaves several supporting characters underdeveloped, depriving viewers of the rich tapestry of relationships that could have added depth to the narrative.
The film is undeniably unsettling, yet it falls short of delivering a lasting emotional impact. While the audience is disturbed by the protagonist’s actions, they may find it difficult to empathise with his plight. The script lacks moments of catharsis or redemption, leaving the viewer feeling incomplete.
Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of Sharp Corner is its inability to fully delve into the psychological and ethical questions it raises. The film hints at profound themes—grief, guilt, and the fine line between heroism and madness—but fails to explore them with sufficient depth. The result is a story that feels shallow, where it could have been deeply introspective.
Sharp Corner is a film with great ambition, but it ultimately doesn’t live up to its potential. Ben Foster’s extraordinary performance and the atmospheric visuals are the standout elements, but they cannot compensate for the uneven pacing and lack of narrative depth. For viewers seeking a film that challenges and provokes, Sharp Corner may offer moments of intrigue, but it leaves much to be desired in the end.
In South African cinemas from June 27.
-Dirk Lombard Fourie