Missed Gripping Thrillers? Check Out This Overlooked Gem With 'Adolescence' Star

Stephen Graham, the co-writer and co-star of the critically acclaimed Netflix series Adolescence, has found his niche. His new project, Heel, thematically echoes his previous work, addressing the same concerns about teenage cruelty and indifference.

While the adults in Adolescence were merely shocked by their offspring's secrets and shrugged their shoulders, here they decide to act in a sophisticated way.

Director Jan Komasa has created a rough yet powerful statement about Stockholm syndrome and dysfunctional families.

What Is 'Heel' About?

Tommy is a 19-year-old boy who spends his days idly. He and his friends teeter on the edge of criminal responsibility, bullying the weak and getting into accidents. At night, Tommy abuses alcohol, gets into fights, and cheats on his girlfriend.

One of these escapades ends in kidnapping. Tommy becomes a hostage in the mansion of an apparently ordinary family: Chris and Kathryn raise their son, Jonathan, practice eco-conscious consumption, and host family movie nights.

Tommy gradually accepts the rules of the game and tries to enlist the help of their recently hired housekeeper, Rina.

'Heel' Is a Darkly Ironic Tale of the Attempts to Reeducate a Generation

The filmmakers darkly mock the idea of "correcting" unruly youths through simple methods, such as banning the internet, dangerous music, and clubs. But what if the youths were kidnapped and chained to a wall?

Komasa doesn't offer easy answers. He keeps the audience on edge by deliberately withholding important details. Why does the family live as outcasts? What do they want from Tommy?

These questions are initially intriguing, but by the middle of the movie, they become irritating. The action slows down, the psychology becomes tedious, and by the third act, when the long-awaited escape finally occurs, some viewers may already be losing patience.

Fortunately, the acting saves even the most questionable scenes.

The Ensemble Cast Is the Best Thing About 'Heel'

Stephen Graham plays against type as Chris, a caring father who is not averse to manipulation and violence when dealing with Tommy.

Andrea Riseborough adds to her collection of tragic heroines. The main discovery, however, is Anson Boon. Previously starring in Guy Ritchie's MobLand, Boon steals the show. By the end, you will want to feel, if not pity, then at least understand his vile character.

Komasa has created an uneven yet impressive work about how total loneliness is more acute today and how different methods can be used to combat it.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Heel'?

• Heel has 88% from critics and 78% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 6.9/10.

• On Letterboxd, Heel scored 3.5/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Heel'?

Heel is available to buy or rent on Amazon Prime Video.