Black Bird

Based on true events, Black Bird follows convicted drug dealer Jimmy Keene as he enters a twisted bargain to reduce his prison sentence. In exchange for an early release, Jimmy must transfer to a maximum security prison and befriend suspected serial killer Larry Hall to elicit a confession. But manipulating a cunning murderer proves more dangerous than expected.

This tense adaptation of In With The Devil premiered on Apple TV+ in 2022. Masterfully directed by Ray Liotta in his final performance, Black Bird blurs lines between predator and prey as Jimmy gets ensnared in Larry’s sinister mind games. Brilliant acting realizes the cat-and-mouse psychopathy at play between the suspected killer and compromised convict seeking freedom.

Haunting cinematography makes isolation within bare prison walls feel claustrophobic as Jimmy races against time to get Larry’s confession. Aaron Paul disappears into the role as the wayward yet sympathetic Jimmy. But Taron Egerton steals the show as unnerving Larry, shifting between affable charm and chilling intensity. Their scenes together crackle with electricity as deception mounts.

Based on Keene’s memoir detailing his unsettling underscover scheme, Black Bird stays true to the real account while condensing timelines. Nightmarish dream sequences provide artistic flair to Jimmy’s unraveling psyche under pressure. Nuanced writing lends empathy to Jimmy’s personal relationships strained by his DEAL with the devil.

Some secondary subplots weigh down momentum between Jimmy and Larry’s enthralling exchanges. Red herrings divert from the central cat-and-mouse tension. But Black Bird delivers an absorbing real-life crime drama perfect for true crime fans. Outstanding acting realizes this psychological prison thriller.

Prepare for mind games where the hunter becomes the hunted in Black Bird’s grippling true story. Let Aaron Paul and Taron Egerton draw you into the chilling chess match between convict and killer. But brace for darkness lurking behind even the kindest masks. Experience the chilling nuance hiding within true evil by watching Black Bird.

• Black Bird