Is Speed Walking Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2014)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Speed Walking, a standout production of 2014, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Drama landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into In a quirky, small town, situated in the outskirts of everything, 14-year-old Martin is getting ready for one of the most formal transitions from boy to man; the communion. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Drama are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "In a quirky, small town, situated in the outskirts of everything, 14-year-old Martin is getting ready for one of the most formal transitions from boy to man; the communion. It's 1976, music's in the air and hormones are blossoming. But in the midst of it all Martin's mother suddenly passes away and her tragic death trickers a series of events that not only changes Martin's life forever, but also affects everyone else in the local community. Overwhelmed with grief neither Martin's dad, nor his older brother, is capable to comfort Martin. He enters adulthood in a mixture of drunken happiness and immense sadness over the loss of his mother, and his relationship to both his friend Kim and girlfriend Kristine comes to its natural conclusion."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. In Speed Walking, we see Villads Bøye utilizing their established screen presence to carry the story forward. It is a solid, workmanlike performance that serves the director's vision without overshadowing the larger narrative goals.

The direction by Niels Arden Oplev is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 108 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Speed Walking truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Drama, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 6.4/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Speed Walking explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2014 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Niels Arden Oplev respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Speed Walking serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Villads Bøye or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Speed Walking is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.