Luther: The Fallen Sun (2023) User Reviews

Luther: The Fallen Sun

[CinemaSerf · 5/10 · 28 February 2023]

I loved the first television series of this gritty and challenging police drama. Sadly, now we have reached a nadir for this charismatic and unorthodox character. The story is so ridiculously far-fetched that it reminded me of something Mark Gatiss might have written for "Sherlock" before he watched "No Time To Die" (2021) and thought - nah! It all starts when youngster "Callum" is dragged away from his night-time cleaning job by a mysterious phone call. Next thing we know, "Luther" (Idris Elba) is at a crime scene with no sign of the boy but with a victim in her car that has been missing for ages. Enter the completely un-menacing "Robey" (Andy Serkis) and pretty soon our favourite policeman is incarcerated for a career of systematic rule-bending/breaking and this rather evil monster now proceeds to prove that evil can prevail - and on a fairly spectacular scale. This story is, frankly, preposterous and as the film lumbers along for over two ours I really struggled to remain engaged as it moved from suicide scenarios to far more brutal killings - but what, exactly, is motivating this man is anyone's guess. He appears to have acquired control over a vast network of technology and people to effect his dastardly plan but none of that even vaguely rings plausible. The last twenty minutes are just plain silly and overall, the writing is all rather poor: "They'll kill you John" - "I can live with that!" - not an hint of irony there, neither. This is a pretty shameless attempt to capitalise on a strong character made memorable by a charismatic actor and a series of solid stories. This film has thrown all of those under the snowplough.

Not in the same league as the TV series but entertaining enough

[grantss · 6/10 · 12 March 2023]

A man is controlling people using their most embarrassing secrets against them. He is also torturing and killing people for sport. DCI Luther is put on the case after the disappearance of one of his victims. This makes Luther a target of the sadist and results in Luther being sentenced to a prison term. However, just because he's in jail doesn't mean Luther isn't on the case.

Being a fan of the TV series I was eagerly awaiting this. I wasn't expecting this film to be as good as the series: most films based on series aren't. Moreover, the quality of the series was due to being able to meticulously build a plot, create engagement with the characters and create tension through developments - a film wouldn't have time enough to do that. So I wasn't too disappointed when this didn't live up to the quality of the series.

Instead of the usual Luther psychological tension and tight plot we have an unoriginal "cop has to save a case while on the run from the law" story. Add in some contrivances, some reasonably predictable plot developments, a cartoonish villain complete with about the fakest-looking hair ever and a reliance on style over substance at times and this is definitely not in the same league as the series.

Yet, despite all this, it's quite entertaining. Despite the 130-minute running time the film moves along at a brisk pace and is never dull. Initial plot setup is good, there are some surprises in the plot and the action scenes are great.

Idris Elba is great in the lead role, as expected, and while Dermot Crowley (as Martin Schenk) was irritating in the series, here he is okay. Cynthia Erivo puts in a solid performance as DCI Odette Raine. On the other hand, Andy Serkis (and his fake hair) is irritating as the villain.

Overall, not great but entertaining.

OK, Ill make my own bloody James Bond film then

[1930s_Time_Machine · 7/10 · 11 March 2023]

With all the rumours about Idris Elba replacing Daniel Craig as 007, it looks like he decided to take matters into his own hands and make his own anyway.

This is an action packed, high octane, ridiculously contrived and formulaic James Bond rip-off. Our indestructible hero even has a go at blowing up the underground lair of Dr Evil's more evil brother. The plot possibly doesn't quite reflect the job description of a typical DCI in the London police force but nevertheless it's insanely exciting edge of the seat stuff. The plot might not be super-original or indeed that thought provoking but it extremely well made and thoroughly entertaining.

Looking forward to the next one!

Lazy

[victoriabarnard264 · 6/10 · 25 February 2023]

Excited to see Idris back in the trusty overcoat of Luther. But that's where the good points end.

Hated the casting of Andy Serkis as the main protagonist, no where near haunting or terrifying enough. Just an extremely annoying character.

Didn't fully get the storyline, seems to be a lot of gaping holes in the plot. Why did we see the killer in a mask just once, why did he burn his wife, why does he have a frozen house in Norway with bodies stashed in the ice. Lots to ponder and get frustrated about.

Shame as the cinematography was great and their were glimpses of what could have been a fantastic film.

Plot's a little loose

[davidcbabsthurgarland · 6/10 · 11 March 2023]

I have but one thing to say: Police divers.

There is a plot convenience towards the end of this film that seems...well...totally stupid. In fact, there are several plot elements throughout the film that are ludicrous. But regarding the aforementioned 'convenience' in the third act; we see the police travelling, via helicopter, to an unknown snowy region to affect an arrest. Why would a last minute, 'time is of the essence', tactical operation in the snow have already geared up police divers?? In the snow? In helicopters? In wetsuits? It hurt my brain.

I have no issue with the occasional plot 'convenience' in order to propel the story forward, but this film takes tremendous liberties that insult the viewers intelligence. It seems lazy and ultimately does a disservice to our protagonist.

Having said all of this, it's still a watchable film. The first act is by far the strongest and most investing, whilst the second and third are serviceable, if not bloated - the film was 30 minutes too long. Our antagonist also lacks any realistic, discernable motivation. Andy Serkis is menacing and creepy in some scenes, whilst being laughably 'unmenacing' in others. I struggled to buy into his criminal 'genius' as well as his physicality in the fight scenes. Speaking of which, some of the fights are well choreographed and executed (particularly the prison scenes), whilst others look and feel fake.

All things considered, it's a solid if slightly forgettable outing for Luther. Elba is fantastic, as always, but is let down by a loose script.

Luther/Black Mirror crossover

[ossie85 · 6/10 · 19 April 2023]

Luther: The Fallen Sun is a solid film that delves into complex themes surrounding technology, humanity, and morality. However, while the film does a decent job of exploring these themes, it ultimately falls short in its execution.

Many of the themes explored in Luther have already been tackled more effectively by other films and TV shows. In particular, Black Mirror has done an excellent job of exploring similar themes surrounding technology and its impact on humanity.

Idris Elba is terrific in the role as always, and I'll always watch Andy Serkis, but can't help feel a little disappointed in this film.

This is OK

[Siddhartha14 · 7/10 · 10 March 2023]

Not on the level of the Luther series and it does have its absurd moments but don't all police procedurals? Idris Elba is awesome as usual and Cynthia Erivo is a wonderful addition to the cast. I think the casting was inspired, even if the story was borderline absurd. It is a clear set up for additional stories about Luther and I look forward to more Luther films or a continuation of the very good series this film is based on. I don't get the hating on this film. It's not nearly as good as the series but it's better than some people are giving credit for. It's worth the little under 2 hours of your time.

Elba and Serkis elevate the usual netflix original mediocrity with a 90s style throwback psychotic thriller.

[tresm87 · 8/10 · 10 March 2023]

There was a time when thrillers were Big box office draws. Some with even the darkest and gruesome of subject matter. Unfortunately that particular film isn't really revered in big box office form these days, but this reminds me of the time they were. Of course the cast helps with the likes of the ultra talented duo of Andy Serkis and Idris Elba who's cat and mouse chase is pure entertainment. The story while it may remind me personally of 90s throwback thrillers is still updated for a time where cyber crime is a real threat and adds a great aspect. The action is also on full throttle in this as well which is nice to see. Overall the intensity of this film belongs in a theater but even so I do think it's a cut above for Netflix original movies these days. Very surprising film.

Starts cliché, but gets thrilling. Shout-out to Netflix being trash

[johnnymlanigan-25715 · 6/10 · 26 February 2023]

First off, the film: Unfortunately the first half felt very uninspired... I'd seen all of this a million times before... It may have worked with a director who was willing to take more risks.... That being said, the second half becomes much more intense and grand scale and I was fully immersed. Overall I'd give it a 7.5....

Buf thanks to Netflix, I'm dropping it to a 6 for its terrible theatrical release... There were random unrelated subtitles plastered on the screen and layered on top of each other... And thanks to that, when there was non English speaking going on, we had no idea what they were saying... When I complained to the theatre staff, they said it was Netflix and they had nothing to do with it... So really impressive, Netflix....

ELBA'S AUDITION FOR JAMES BOND

[levybob · 2/10 · 12 March 2023]

In many James Bond films, 007 ends up battling the villain in an underground fortress, a deep sea fortress, an overground fortress, or, at the very least, a faraway fortress. And we never really know how he got there or why the villain chose that as his headquarters but there we are, disbelief suspended, rooting for our hero. The malevolent villain in his malevolent fortress surrounded by malevolent underlings. But - and this is important - we expected that from Bond. After all, the ENTIRE WORLD was at stake. And what better to bring down the world than a fortress?

In 'Luther: The Fallen Sun', the entire world is not at stake. Given, a lot of innocent people do die, but does our villain really need a faraway fortress? No, of course not. But 'Luther's ...' got one. And, if actor Idris Elba were auditioning to be the next Bond, it would make sense to have the film's climax at that fortress. It would make sense for Luther - like Bond in Casino Royale - to be tied up and tortured at that fortress. It would make sense for Luther - like Bond - to battle the bureaucracy and have it's female head - like Bond's 'M' - become an important ally. Yes, at that fortress.

This Luther is unlike any that came before. And that is a bad thing, make no mistake. Do not go into this looking for London, or grit, or romance, or anything that made Luther, 'Luther'. In one early scene we see Luther posing atop a skyscraper, the camera rolling back from him, showing him off as a Batman-like super hero. Which, as we Luther fans know, he is not.

People are being killed all over London. What do they all have in common? Only Luther can figure it out. And he does. And we have no idea 'how'. He just does. Down to the most minute detail. He just does. And the 'who' behind the killings; he figures that out as well, and with ridiculous ease.

Luther is jailed early in the film (a totally unnecessary plot development). Why? The answer is vague but he does escape jail with - yes - ridiculous ease. And like every stereotypical thriller, locating the villain becomes personal. In this case it's the female head of police - like Bond's 'M' - who is imperiled.

I could go on. There's the whole Norway 'business' .... but enough. This Luther is bad stuff and if anyone tells you it ain't, that person (a) never watched the earlier Luthers and / or (b) should never be listened-to about anything, ever again.

I never heard of or saw the series.

[Top_Dawg_Critic · 9/10 · 11 March 2023]

Maybe that's why I enjoyed this as much as I did, because as a stand-alone movie, this was a great watch. Even at its 129 min runtime and fast pacing, I still wanted more. The time flew by, but I would've liked more character development for most of the leads, instead of just being thrown into action. I'm not complaining about the constant suspense and thrills, but another 15-20 mins added would've done this film justice, and that's coming from someone who gets impatient for anything longer than a 90 min runtime. Aside from some plot and technical issues, and having to overlook some ridiculousness of overly ambitious and unrealistic scenes, the story flowed really well, and was constant edge of your seat entertainment. Not sure why all the bad comments, maybe everyone was comparing it to the series. Nevertheless, all around great performances, cinematography, score and soundtrack. I liked this so much, I may binge the series.

Actually translated to film better than I initially thought!

[Mikheil-H · 7/10 · 26 February 2023]

Many thoughts here so this might be a bit incoherent.

Firstly, Andy Serkis is a great villain, though when his whole plan is unveiled at the end it does get a bit boring, but he sells the role brilliantly

As a Londoner, I loved seeing my city on the big screen and that sequence in Picadilly Circus is breathtaking and definitely the highlight of the film

Hahaha I love how even in a frozen wasteland Luther refuses to wear anything other than his coat and tie to keep warm!! That's dedication I admire!

Surprisingly nice cinematography at times, very awkward special effects at other times.

Shenk survived!!

Idris Elba lit the screen up even in the most tedious of scenes

Whole community of wanna-be serial killers is a very tired idea done very weakly here which is a shame....but

Hahaha yaaaassss, if Idris Elba can't be James Bond, then John Luther definitely can be!!!

A disappointing return for Idris Elba's detective

[FilmFanatic2023 · 4/10 · 24 February 2023]

Luther: The Fallen Sun is a Netflix film that serves as a continuation of the BBC series Luther, starring Idris Elba as John Luther, a brilliant but troubled detective who breaks out of prison to hunt down a serial killer. While fans of the show might be excited to see Elba reprise his iconic role, they will likely be let down by this film's lackluster plot, weak villain and wasted potential.

The film suffers from a lack of originality and suspense, as it recycles many elements from previous seasons of Luther, such as Luther's relationship with Alice Morgan (Ruth Wilson), his former partner Justin Ripley (Warren Brown) and his new ally Angela Rose (Cynthia Erivo). The serial killer, played by Andy Serkis, is a cartoonish and unconvincing antagonist who has a vague motive and an unrealistic plan. The film also fails to explore Luther's character development or moral dilemmas, instead relying on clichés and contrivances.

The only saving grace of this film is Idris Elba's performance, which is still charismatic and compelling despite the weak material. He manages to convey Luther's inner turmoil and determination with subtlety and intensity. However, even he cannot elevate this film above its mediocrity. Luther: The Fallen Sun is a disappointing return for one of TV's most complex and captivating detectives.

It's a 7/10 just bacause I've got a lot of time for Elba, Serkis and General Madine.

[specialbobby · 7/10 · 12 March 2023]

But I'm reality it's a pretty weak 5 without them.

It all starts off well enough, certainly looks the part and has you hooked from the start, but from half hour in it descends into a pile of screenwriters vomit, messy, bits and pieces strewn everywhere, the pacing is rushed beyond belief with zero sense of time. How long was he in Prison? How long does it take to get from a police station to a care home compared to getting from London to Iceland in a Volvo, and I know Luther has a trade mark outfit but really, even he'd have pulled over and treated himself to a nice new coat, scarf and gloves before he go there. Serkis was good fun but once it turned into a bad Saw movie with websites that looked like one's from 1995's The Net he lost me and the whole thing fell into a frozen lake. Shame but very watchable I guess.

Luther

[RobTheWatcher · 6/10 · 12 March 2023]

First off, I've never seen the Luther series so I'd imagine I'm missing some character development and other helpful information from the series but regardless I enjoyed this movie. The story line was reasoning well thought out and the writing was good. Idris Elba and Andy Serkis both played their parts extremely well. I do think the movie in general was too long but even still it was solid. I like that this seems to lend itself to more movies to come and I'd definitely watch it. Worth the watch for sure. IMDb needs to get rid of this character minimum for movies though. It's mad annoying and unnecessary.

Forget about the hate in coments

[afifaboukhalil · 7/10 · 14 March 2023]

It was a descent movie and enjoyable one , i don't know where all the hate is coming from. People nowadays are more likely heading for superheroes movies as if they exist or as if any of the nonsense we see in their movies is beleivable or near to mindsense. If it was for batman or superman or spiderman and the freaks they fight people will be so satisfied for no reason and would've accepted all the nonsense in that

This movie could've been better ? Yes sure But is it that bad ? Surely not

Some people needs to quit watching movies and search for another hobby or if you are that much genius in critisising everything you see go and make your own movie and enjoy watching it by urself.

I never gave a review on amy movie i just watch and enjoy it for myaself and i never took anyone's review bcz i know their are some annoying people out there that thinks they are movies geniuses.

Ludicrous but entertaining

[Orlando_Gardner · 6/10 · 11 March 2023]

As with every iteration of the Luther saga this is entertaining, bit also like every iteration it is completely ludicrous. To be honest the plot feels like it would sit more comfortably in a comic book film. This is not to dis comic book films, I love them, but they are inherently ludicrous by nature so they can get away with it more often. The plot of The Fallen Sun is basically a Batman type story. A deranged seriel killer on the loose with elaborate plans for the final big kill. Here though our Batman is our world weary detective Luther but with no gadgets or budget. We even see him don his costume (grey coat, grey shirt and red tie) and stand like a sentinel, silhouetted against the backdrop of his beloved city. Ready to fight the good fight again in the only way he truly knows how, vigilante style. The acting is as usual decent enough and the direction is pretty tight (but does have one or two stilted, badly paced scenes) but it's the cinematography for me that's the standout. London has never looked more like Nolan's Gotham, and it looks gorgeously menacing for it. The only thing that really let's it down is the bombastic storyline. It's a good two hours entertainment but don't expect it to be much more than that.

Big spoiler *Is this to be Elba's Bond realised? Is he being invited onto His Majesties Secret Service? A little foreshadowing in the bar earlier when the barman offers him a Martini to take the edge off of the day. Of course not but still I thought it was a nice little tilt of the head/dig to those who chose not to give Elba the gig.*

Ignore the bad reviews, here's why:

[megansmit-02155 · 8/10 · 18 March 2023]

Step 1: don't watch this movie before watching the show. The show is phenomenal, especially seasons 1-3. People complaining about character development either haven't watched the show, or they're just bitter this isn't season 6.

Step 2: after watching the show, watch the movie. You'll be jonesing for more Luther, and you'll be grateful for it. Not as grateful as those of us who've been waiting since 2019, but whatever.

Step 3: appreciate the order. The most important character development occurred in those seasons, giving context to layered characters like Luther and Schenk.

Step 4: hold on for a fast-paced dark and thrilling crime drama - the thing the BBC does so well. Enjoy Elba bringing this lion of a character to our screens again. Hope that this allows for more to come.

Not as bad as people are making out

[craig-snell-151-149427 · 7/10 · 11 March 2023]

Is it as Clever and intriguing as the TV series, a simple answer is no, is there lots of action, yes.

Are there some bits where you go WTF ? Yes, hell yes.

Now my feelings on this, is that this was supposed to be series 6, a full season on this could and should have been wonderful. However, alas it wasn't to be, whether it was Idris or the BBC not wanting to do we may never know, but there was definitely an appetite for more. Is this what the masses were hungry for ? I am not too sure but, it really isn't as bad as people are giving it, I mean 2 out of 10 is just ridiculous, I understand it doesn't live up to the amazing TV show, but it's a fun film, and I for one quite enjoyed Andy Serkis's performance, it reminded me of a 1970's bond film villain, camp, funny and truly twisted.

It's in no way a movie that could up there with things like Jason Bourne, but it's as good as Little Tom's attempt at Jack Reacher (watch the TV show on Prime Video, that is excellent)

In summary, this could have been way way better, but it also could have been a whole lot worse.

I do suspect that this ain't the last we have seen of Luther.

Awful

[PeteThePrimate · 2/10 · 10 March 2023]

If you're expecting something as well written and acted as the TV series then this film will disappoint you. The acting, dialogue and plot are what you get when you throw a van full of money at a half-baked and poorly thought out plot with a weak script and some really weak acting. I rarely turn off a film but 45 minutes of this garbage was enough. Andy Serkis in a dodgy wig was unbelievable as the villain and Idris Elba seemed to be going through the motions no doubt enticed by a decent paycheck. The rest of the cast were unconvincing as police officers, prison guards and a grieving mother and the plot made no sense. It could have been great but it stank.

Good enough

[cckclark · 8/10 · 11 March 2023]

I a big Luther fan. Love the series. Is this as good? No. Who expected it to be. But it's decent. Serkis is excellent. Elba is as you would expect. Shanklin a joy as always. Dark enough to match up to some of the series. Some excellent moments but admittedly sandwiched with some more unbelievable aspects. Given the tosh on Netflix (anything with a 'made by Netflix' tag usually means is mass produced rubbish) it's up there as a good one in my opinion Yes the haters will hate as they always do and hardcore purists will say they don't like it and it's not as good as the series, but if you like Luther, you will be happy enough.

No credibility thriller therefore ok entertainment

[ccarriere-43044 · 6/10 · 26 February 2023]

A Netflix/BBc films product and it show...especially in the beginning and the ending...a thriller, a police thrillers, a crime thriller only works if it is believable. Did someone proof read the final screenplay? Some scene are lift from or reminiscence of Batman, Doctor Who, the Avengers & The Saint...all theses big scenes are great on their on..but had nothing to the movie, do no make this thriller more believable. I am starting to wonder if it is the Netflix touch that i do not like? ...this would be 3 Netflix movies release that found the same pattern of over doing it ... But as the same time over simplifying it so that you get lots of actions. My issues is with the end quality of the product...for entertainment value it is a 7, if we excluded the beginning and ending ...which count for only 1/3 of the 129 minutes ... Guess that is what Netflix is wanting ... ...entertain at all cost. The plot which had great potential is finally weak...because lots left unexplained or to simply explain...again to be believable.

Watch the series and then stop.

[Dodge-Zombie · 2/10 · 16 March 2023]

There is no easier way to say this than this totally sucked. I mean I could say it another way but honestly imdb wouldn't allow me to post this if I did.

So first I watched the whole series and enjoyed some and didn't enjoy some but in general it was enough to make me watch this pot of rubbish.

Andy Serkis could be the best actor in the world but the hair style he sports in this is just so laughable it takes anything serious away from his character.

The whole script and show has been Americanized. People who are english repeatedly use american slang or phrasing. The special effects, well, weren't special.

Possibly my boggest issue was that 6'3" Idris Elba apparently can't defend himself against 5'8" Serkis.

Absolute junk. Terrible acting, horrible script, rubbish direction.... Like I said to begin with, watch the series and then stop.

Had low expectations and was mostly entertained til the last 30 min when logic was totally thrown put the window.. still...

[maaaynu · 7/10 · 26 July 2023]

Ok... first i totally see the point of all the 2/10 comments.

The script is not great, ive seen Idris Elba act much more passionately (havent seen the series) and there are too many rifts in logic... but again we were entertained so i have a better score than i would usually give a film with that make up.

The story itself is interesting and does create suspense and at the end tries to touch a moral question.

But as i mentioned, the scrupt has too many flaws and problems with characters and their behaviour. .. so I dont know...

Guess my advice would be; watch it for entertainement with some flinching purpose, You will be fine... Dont watch it if you expect an intelligent script and solid acting and directing, Then you will be dissapointed like the 2sters :)

Not bad at all

[amir_hmz · 7/10 · 10 March 2023]

Netflix's Luther: The Fallen Sun sees the return of DCI John Luther.

I would say I was nicely surprised by it being a decent film considering how the final seasons of the show were going off the rails and how Netflix tends to ruin things that were a pleasant watch before it got the rights.

It does what an Action/Thriller is supposed to do. It is thrilling and keeps you engaged. Does it go beyond that? Not really.

It is cliche of course and there are parts of it being dark just for the sake of it and not having a payoff at the end, plot holes can be found if you look a little more closely, but nothing that ruins the thrill of the movie for you.

The movie is as always carried by the charismatic performance of Idris Elba who knows how to play a grounded detective/James Bond, even at scenes that don't really make sense.

Andy Serkis, while not on the top of his game (thanks to the subpar writing), is still a nice addition to the cast.

While not passionately looking forward to the (apparent) sequels to this movie, I will certainly give them a watch.