Downhill (2020)

Review Team

3/5

Downhill, directed by Nat Faxon, presents a unique take on marital strife set against the backdrop of a ski vacation gone awry. The film begins with a moment of intense crisis—a near-fatal avalanche—that serves as a catalyst for the unraveling of Bill and Judy's relationship. The performances by Wil ... Show more >> Downhill, directed by Nat Faxon, presents a unique take on marital strife set against the backdrop of a ski vacation gone awry. The film begins with a moment of intense crisis—a near-fatal avalanche—that serves as a catalyst for the unraveling of Bill and Judy's relationship. The performances by Will Ferrell and Julia Louis-Dreyfus are commendable, capturing the tension and vulnerability of their characters. However, while the film attempts to explore deep themes of trust and survival, it sometimes feels overly reliant on its premise without fully delivering on its emotional potential. The pacing can be uneven, and some viewers may find the resolution lacking in satisfaction. Overall, Downhill is an intriguing watch, but it may not resonate with everyone, particularly those seeking a more conventional narrative arc. Show less

Editor Team

2/5

Honestly, Downhill left me wanting more. The concept is promising—an avalanche disrupting a family holiday—and the potential for character exploration is ripe for the picking. Will Ferrell and Julia Louis-Dreyfus are undoubtedly talented, yet their performances here felt like they were trapped in a ... Show more >> Honestly, Downhill left me wanting more. The concept is promising—an avalanche disrupting a family holiday—and the potential for character exploration is ripe for the picking. Will Ferrell and Julia Louis-Dreyfus are undoubtedly talented, yet their performances here felt like they were trapped in a script that didn’t know where to go. The film oscillates between moments of humour and heavy drama, but it never quite finds the right balance. The emotional stakes should have been through the roof, but instead, I found myself detached, watching characters I couldn’t fully connect with. By the end, I was left pondering what I had just witnessed, wishing it had capitalised on its intriguing premise. If you’re looking for a light comedy with a dash of introspection, you might find some enjoyment, but don't expect a profound exploration of relationships. Show less