The Order is a new film from Justin Kurzel with an all-star cast ensemble, including Jude Law, Nicholas Hoult, Tye Sheridan, Jurnee Smollett, Alison Oliver, and Marc Maron. Set in the 1980’s in the United States, the film follows FBI agent, Terk Husk (Law) as he goes after a white supremacist terrorist group known as The Order, lead by Bob Mathews (Hoult).

I still remember seeing my first Kurzel film in 2016 with Assassin’s Creed. It was one of the rarest movies that was playing a showing at 9 A.M. While the film wasn’t the best, I still found something redeemable in Kurzel’s craft. I have seen some of his other works, too. With this film, I was hoping that this would really bring him back. I’m happy to report that he delivers with an amazing movie that showcases his talent as a filmmaker.

In scope, I would consider this an indie, and it’s impressive how Kurzel brings together one of the best casts together. It’s truly a dream cast that is fully realized. Two non-American actors – Law & Hoult – both fit into their roles seamlessly. They both are committed to the way they speak and never slip into their accent.

If you are a fan of The Silence of the Lambs or Heat, this film might be for you. The film is clearly influenced by the pacing and look of The Silence of the Lambs, and influenced by the characterization of Heat. Law & Hoult’s dynamic is similar to that of Pacino & De Niro in Heat. They both have their own agenda & are both effective at what they do. There’s a true cat-and-mouse game at play that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Law’s commitment to the role currently has him in my top 10 performances of the year. From his line delivery to the emotions on his face, it’s a performance that is hard not to root for, especially with what happens to him. I could make a case for Hoult as well to be in my top 10. What holds it back is how much the film shows how effective he was at what he does. His performance serves an important part to the overall themes, but the film doesn’t entirely show how evil he could have been. That’s something the film could have leaned into more.

As for the supporting cast, Sheridan gives an incredibly heartfelt performance. You can tell where the story is going for him, and it’s still heartbreaking to see. Smollett proves why she is one of the most underrated actresses working today with a performance that is so cold & confident. Then, there’s Maron who helps keep the film going. Needless to say, everyone in the supporting cast helps bring the films messages together.

I am really impressed with the pacing. With a runtime that’s under 2 hours, the film flies by and feels like it’s rarely done with a biopic of the sort. The film uses voiceover to help get from one scene to the next. It manages to be action-packed all while keeping the dialogue riveting. I know it’s a long shot, but I hope this gets an Oscars nomination for editing. Another longshot for an Oscar nomination is for its cinematography. The film is consistently visually appealing with well-crafted camera shots.

Overall, The Order exceeds expectations with a film that feels timely and celebrates its influences. Director Justin Kurzel brings together one of the best casts of the year, crafting one of the best movies of the year. Its uneasiness will not be for everyone, but if people are open to it, they will get something incredibly meaningful out of it.

VERDICT: 4.5/5 (Amazing)