Lenny Abrahamson’s 2012 dramaWhat Richard Didis a captivating movie that takes a clever approach to telling one of the most thought-provoking tales in cinema. Based on the2008 novelBad Day in BlackrockbyKevin Power—itself inspired bythe real-life murder of Brian Murphyin Dublin in 2000—What Richard Diddelves into the psychological turmoilof a young, high-achieving man whose world takes a deep dive afterseconds of madness that lead to an irrevocable act.The film is a study of Richard Karlsen (Jack Reynor), a popular high school rugby player from affluent Dublin with a seemingly bright future, who kills his teammate Conor (Sam Keeley) in an altercation after a party hangout fueled by jealousy over a girl, Lara (Roisin Murphy). What follows in Lenny Abrahamson’s gripping third feature is an intimate journey into Richard’s mind as he is forced tochoose between integrity and a descent into moral darkness.A non-judgmental movie,What Richard Didreminds us to be wary of our primal instincts, as some could prove destructive.
‘What Richard Did’ Explores the Psychological Unraveling of a Killer
Unlike fast-paced thrillers with similar premises,such asPrimal Fear, with dramatic courtroom scenes and shocking revelations,What Richard Didtakes a step back,walking us through Richard’s psyche, from his near-perfect celebrity lifewith a clear focus on his future to the moment all that is threatened by a single event. We first experienceRichard’s high school lifeas the respected golden boy of his peers,with girls fawning over him at partiesand campsites. He is the alpha male of his group, deciding who dates whom and demonstrating a clear vision for his future. The journey to his fateful moment begins when he takes an interest in Lara, Conor’s girlfriend, and ultimately wins her over.Interactions among the three build subtle tensions that culminate in the brawl that ends Conor’s life.
Even after the death—which occurs nearly halfway through the film—Abrahamson doesn’t alter the film’s pace with explosive investigationslike many crime thrillers may be tempted to do.Instead, he allows us to observe Richard’s transformation from the initial façade of denial and self-preservation to his eventual unraveling.The film gradually peels back Richard’s mask piece by piece as guilt takes center stage in his life.The responsible young adult who had to grow up quickly to fill the shoes of his depressed father (played byLars Dittmann Mikkelsen, known forhis portrayal of Grand Admiral Thrawn inStar Wars), turns to that very father for advice after finally acknowledging his murderous actions. Richard loses interest in activities he once enjoyed anddevelops a loathing for the public limelight he used to live for.In crowds—such as a revealing church scene where Conor’s mother confronts the congregation over his son’s killing—Richard is isolated, and alone, he fares even worse. Abrahamson forces the audience to sit through Richard’s discomfort with unbearable tension while inevitably prompting poignant questions about morality and guilt.
‘What Richard Did’ Is Elevated by Outstanding Performances
Jack Reynor embodies Richard with the confidence of a privileged young manwho believes that the world is his oyster while portraying the shattered demeanor of someone who realizes this dream may be crashing down. Whether it is how he embraces Richard’s popularity through a confident, broad smile that invites others to share in his world, or how he capturesRichard’s internal conflictwith aquiet intensity that relies on subtle body language,Reynor immerses audiences in Richard’s transformative journey. He believably shifts from the bubbly, confident superstar Richard isto the haunted shell of a guilty soul,showcasing the diverse range of emotions up his sleeve.
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A familiar troublesome boyfriend character, opposite Reynor, is a greatsupporting cast that includesRoisin Murphy, who plays Lara’s coming-of-age persona with diligence. Mikkelsen is a standout as Richard’s father, portraying a parent whose haunted eyes alone tella complete story of regret and disillusionment.His chemistry with Reynor—demonstrated by the scene in which their characters find solace in each other’s vulnerability—is cinematic gold. Piecing these elements together is Abrahamson’s vision which letsthe story unfold slowly and without melodrama—making the narrative’s impact hit even harder. In its 90-minute runtime,you could see yourself in Richard’s shoesasWhat Richard Didwhispers to you that a few seconds of madness could change your life for the worse. It isa worthy, engrossing movie that is as quiet as it is disquieting.
What Richard Didis available to rent on Prime Video in the U.S.
What Richard Did
