"Black Diamond" was released on January 10 for rental on Apple TV. It is a captivating, suspenseful film starring Inbar Lavi as Elena, Jake McLaughlin as Jesse, the cowboy handyman, and Ray Panthaki as Spencer.
Spencer moves into a secluded, snowy cabin in Colorado cabin with his girlfriend, Elena. When Spencer needs work done at the cabin, he hires the local cowboy handyman, Jesse. Jesse seems like this friendly local when, in reality, that turns out to be far from the truth. This film turns into a deadly love triangle of obsession and murder between Jesse and Elena.
Highs
The highlight of "Black Diamond" is the suspense leading up to the intensity of the murder. Elena and Jesse’s chemistry is undeniable but deadly. Elena plays the quiet girlfriend of a billionaire, but she has other plans. Lavi plays her character full of passion and emotion. Escaping from her other life, she is determined to live a better life and tricks this self-absorbed billionaire. She does whatever he says to reach her end goal, keeping the audience intrigued and suspenseful.
McLaughlin as Jesse was high, considering how mysterious his character is. He shows this helpful handyman to Spencer when he is trying to pursue a bigger goal. He befriends Spencer but becomes intrigued by his girlfriend, Elena. His obsession with Elena is well done due to his passion and determination to have her.
The film's setting is a highlight because of how beautiful the winter is, with the mountains and skiing. It is bright and captivating, and it is in a cozy cabin. The suspenseful, thrilling scenes are high; there are intense scenes between Elena and Jesse. Elena is perceived as a clueless woman when, in reality, she is more intelligent than she looks. She keeps her eyes guarded and protects herself no matter the cost.
Lows
The low point in "Black Diamond" is the confusing plot, which lacks essential aspects of the story. For instance, Jesse’s background story lacks details about his upbringing and end goal. Elena's character also lacks background about what happened to her in her past life. Her character could have been more in-depth if this knowledge had been known to the viewer. The lack of depth makes it hard to connect with the characters.
Spencer is low because he is a wimp when protecting Elena. He is a billionaire who is all talk and is scared of violence, even when it comes to saving Elena. He plays a snobby rich man who can be annoying to the audience. He treats women similarly to maidens, just as he helps with cleaning and cooking. He thinks that poor people are the help.
The film's pacing was slow, and the suspense developed slowly. This is a low, considering it can be tedious for the audience when things take a while. A faster-paced film with better suspenseful themes could have kept the audience more engaged.
Verdict
"Black Diamond" is not worth watching, considering its pacing issues and lack of character depth. It is a simpler film that can be predictable.
Rating: 5 out of 10
Mariam Fakhreddine is a film and theater reviewer for The Eastern Echo. She has worked as a news and features reporter for The Echo for two years.
