The 4 Points Review: A Gritty Crime Drama!

Los Angeles is a city of divisions—between wealth and poverty, law and crime, past and present. The 4 Points, directed by Raúl Pérez in his feature debut, delves into the city’s most volatile streets, where two LAPD detectives are tasked with investigating a series of brutal murders. Once on opposite sides of gang rivalries, they now find themselves working together in a case that threatens to unravel everything they’ve built—and drag them back into the chaos they once escaped.

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Starting with the positives, the dynamic between Murphy and Allen is at the heart of The 4 Points, shaped by a history of rivalry and the pursuit of redemption. As former gang members turned LAPD detectives, their uneasy partnership reveals the depth and complexity of their pasts.

Murphy, hardened by years of violence, and Allen, driven by a longing for change, wrestle with their fractured bond as they investigate a string of murders that threaten their city. The film dives deep into themes of redemption, exploring how both men try to break free from their pasts while grappling with loyalty, betrayal, and the inescapable cycle of violence that haunts those caught in the underworld.

Raúl Pérez’s direction in The 4 Points immerses viewers in the unforgiving world of Los Angeles, almost making the city itself feel like another character. The gritty handheld camera work captures the raw intensity of the streets, adding an urgent, almost claustrophobic feel to the film. The color palette, with its muted tones and shadows, reinforces the dark, troubled atmosphere, while the pacing keeps the tension building without overwhelming the audience. These stylistic choices anchor the story in realism, heightening the stakes of the investigation and ensuring the film’s gritty, tense tone remains consistent throughout.

The movie doesn’t shy away from graphic content, depicting violence and drug use in a way that feels raw and unflinching. The brutality of the streets is mirrored in the film’s realistic portrayal of its characters’ struggles. Sound design plays a crucial role, with abrupt shifts in volume adding intensity during pivotal moments. The use of sound effects—like gunshots and distant sirens—complements the film’s gritty tone, enhancing the realism and impact of its more violent, high-stakes scenes.

Dustin Harnish and Dominique Marsell deliver standout performances as Murphy and Allen, respectively. Harnish portrays Murphy with a hardened edge, reflecting his troubled past while navigating the complexities of his present role as a detective. Marsell’s Allen brings depth and vulnerability, balancing the desire for redemption with the harsh reality of their investigation. Together, they create a compelling dynamic, with their chemistry driving the emotional core of the film.

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All in all, The 4 Points delivers a gritty, character-driven crime drama with strong performances and a raw depiction of Los Angeles’ underworld. Raúl Pérez’s direction immerses the audience in a tense, dark atmosphere, bolstered by effective sound design and striking visuals. However, the pacing can occasionally feel uneven, with moments that drag or disrupt the flow of the investigation. Despite this, the film’s exploration of redemption and loyalty makes it a gripping watch for fans of intense crime thrillers.

‘The 4 Points’ Rating – 3.25/5