Netflix’s Sneakily Added Gem: One of 2023’s Finest Films
Netflix Adds Critically Acclaimed Film “How to Blow Up a Pipeline” to its Library
Netflix continues to impress its viewers with a wide range of new releases, and this time, it has added one of the best films of the year so far to its library. According to the Independent, the streaming service has recently released several high-profile titles, including the second season of The Lincoln Lawyer, a documentary about the iconic band Wham!, and a stand-up show by comedian Tom Segura. However, amidst these releases, a critically acclaimed film that had its theatrical release back in April went unnoticed by many.
The movie in question is “How to Blow Up a Pipeline,” a radical heist thriller based on Andreas Malm’s 2021 book on climate activism. Set in Texas, the film follows a group of environmental activists who plan to sabotage the construction of an oil pipeline. Written by lead star Ariela Barer, Jordan Sjol, and directed by Daniel Goldhaber, the film offers a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Goldhaber previously directed the Netflix horror thriller CAM in 2018, featuring popular actor Madeline Brewer from The Handmaid’s Tale.
Apart from the talented main cast, including Ariela Barer, Kristine Froseth, and Lukas Gage, the film also features Forrest Goodluck, Sasha Lane, Jayme Lawson, Marcus Scribner, Jake Weary, and Irene Bedard. Their powerful performances bring life to this thought-provoking film.
In a four-star review by Clarisse Loughrey of The Independent, the film is praised for its borrowing of the tone and structure of classic Hollywood thrillers. Loughrey highlights the film’s humanity at its core, enhanced by the cinematographer Tehillah De Castro’s use of grainy 16mm, Daniel Garber’s sharp editing, and Gavin Brivik’s restless electronic score, which intensify the tension throughout. Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian compares the film’s structure to Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs, while Matt Zoller Seitz of RogerEbert.com calls it “one of the most original American thrillers in years.”
Netflix subscribers who are fans of thrilling, thought-provoking cinema will not want to miss “How to Blow Up a Pipeline.” With its captivating storyline, talented cast, and critical acclaim, this film is sure to leave a lasting impact.
