Too Old to Die Young

Too Old to Die Young (2019) 

Featuring a noir LA cop who at night cleanses the world of the ugliest things, Too Old to Die Young is gloomy, atmospheric and harsh, while fleetingly recalling Lost Highway and 8MM, with titillating revelation of the darkest sexual taboos. It’s not a mini-series, but a seamless 15-hour film, an ultimate Refn work for the curious and callous. No skimming over the pretty surface like in The Neon Demon, but smooth development of disturbing storylines that you want or must witness – if you have the nerve and stomach for it. The fourth and fifth episodes were screened at Cannes with great fanfare. The former introduced the key characters, while the latter sucked the audience into a cinematically absorbing state of ecstasy built on atmosphere, shock and suspense. With unpredictable development and humorous nuances, Too Old uncovers the perversion and wickedness of the world of bad guys, while the audience lusts for bloody revenge. The eccentric Cliff Martinez and the master Khondji of Se7en fame behind the camera. Chilly warehouses, dim bars, dry deserts, LA back alleys. Brightly coloured neon lights. Fascists, Satanists, sadists and rapists. Best of Refn! (20.05.2019)