REPTILE is filled with an outstanding, understated performance from Benicia Del Toro while stuck within a so-so story. This film is character-driven, with excellent ensemble acting from Alecia Silverstone and Justin Timberlake.
REPTILE is a murder mystery that involves tons of healing from a psychological perspective. Cops have issues, too, as witnessed by the many flashbacks. This film is gritty and slow-moving. Getting to the “aha” reveal takes a long time, and I am not sure the payoff is worth the wait. It needed more editing. The saving grace of this “who done it” is indeed Del Toro with his quiet tone, persistence, and love for the law.
In my book, REPTILE is a low “meh.” It is a good “watch” for how to create strong characterizations. And only if you love to solve crime dramas or secretly profess to be a wannabe future actor.
It is available to stream on NETFLIX.