Stranger by Night

About This Movie

Stranger by Night is one of those gritty thrillers that really leans into the psychological aspects of its characters. Detective Bobby Corcoran is played with a sort of nervous intensity, and his unraveling mental state is as compelling as the hunt for the serial killer. The atmosphere is thick with dread, and the pacing keeps you on edge—just when you think you’ve got a handle on things, the film throws in a curveball. Practical effects are used sparingly but effectively, adding a rawness to the violence that makes it all the more unsettling. The interplay between Corcoran and Detective Larson brings a nice dynamic, though you kind of feel for Larson, who’s always in the shadows of Corcoran’s struggles. It’s a film that sticks with you long after the credits roll.

Interesting take on psychological thriller · Strong performances, particularly from the lead · Distinctive atmosphere that enhances the narrative