Red Riding: 1974 is the intense first installment in the critically acclaimed Red Riding Trilogy, adapted from the novels of David Peace. Directed by Julian Jarrold, this gripping British crime drama is set against the bleak, rain-soaked backdrop of Yorkshire in the mid-70s—a landscape as grim and troubled as the crimes it hides.
The story centers on Eddie Dunford (played by Andrew Garfield), an ambitious young crime reporter who begins investigating the disappearance and murder of several young girls. What initially seems like a straightforward serial killer case quickly evolves into something far more sinister. As Eddie delves deeper into the mystery, he encounters a terrifying network of police corruption, organized crime, and institutional decay. With each revelation, it becomes increasingly clear that those meant to protect the public may be the ones orchestrating the horrors from the shadows.
Garfield delivers a career-making performance as a man in over his head, battling not only external enemies but his own moral compromises and the weight of unbearable truths. The film doesn’t shy away from portraying the brutal violence and emotional toll of its subject matter, making for a deeply unsettling but undeniably powerful viewing experience.
Why It’s a Must-Watch:
- Taut storytelling and gritty realism
- Stellar performance from Andrew Garfield
- Haunting score and stark cinematography
- Unflinching look at institutional corruption
With its 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Red Riding: 1974 stands as a masterclass in atmospheric crime storytelling. It’s a bold, unrelenting exploration of evil in its many forms—and a sobering reminder that truth and justice don’t always walk hand in hand.
