🎯 Quick Overview
Trailer
- Director: Grant Singer
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery, Thriller, Neo-noir
- Release year: 2023
- Runtime (length): 2h 14min
- IMDb rating: 6.8/10 (102K votes)
- Rotten Tomatoes: 43%
😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained
A cop with a mysterious past and an affinity for home improvement uncovers a real estate scheme involving rich people, drugs, and way too many suspects, making you question if anyone is trustworthy.
🍿 Reptile: Detailed Plot Synopsis
The Murder of Summer Elswick
The film opens with the brutal murder of Summer Elswick, a real estate agent, discovered by her boyfriend and colleague, Will Grady, in a house they were showing. Veteran detective Tom Nichols is assigned to the case, immediately launching an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. The crime scene suggests a violent and personal attack, raising questions about the motive and the perpetrator.

Initial Suspects and Red Herrings
Detective Nichols investigates several potential suspects, including Will Grady, Summer’s boyfriend, and Sam Gifford, her estranged husband. Each suspect presents their own set of possible motives and alibis, leading Nichols down various paths. The investigation uncovers hidden relationships and past conflicts, complicating the case and making it difficult to determine the true killer. As the investigation progresses, a web of secrets and lies begins to unravel, casting suspicion on multiple individuals.

Unraveling a Conspiracy
As Nichols digs deeper, he uncovers a complex conspiracy involving real estate fraud and potential money laundering. The investigation reveals that Summer may have been involved in illicit activities connected to the Grady family’s real estate business. This revelation shifts the focus of the investigation, suggesting that Summer’s murder was not a crime of passion but a calculated act to protect a larger criminal enterprise.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained
🎬 Cast & Characters
- Tom Nichols (Benicio Del Toro): A hardened detective investigating a complex murder case that unearths deep-seated corruption within his department.
- Will Grady (Justin Timberlake): The bereaved boyfriend and real estate partner of the murdered victim who becomes a prime suspect.
- Judy Nichols (Alicia Silverstone): Tom’s supportive wife who aids him in his investigation and offers valuable insights.
- Captain Robert Allen (Eric Bogosian): Tom’s superior officer and Judy’s uncle, who is later revealed to be involved in the corruption.
- Eli Phillips (Michael Pitt): A man with a grudge against the Gradys, who provides crucial evidence to Tom.
- Marty Graeber (Mike Pniewski): The police chief who is initially trusted but later revealed to be complicit in the criminal activities.
- Summer Elswick (Matilda Lutz): The murdered real estate agent whose death triggers a complex investigation into corruption and money laundering.
💬 Memorable Quotes
- Tom Nichols: “Piece of shit real estate agent.” – Tom mutters this after waking up from a nightmare involving Will Grady, highlighting his growing suspicion towards him.
- Eli Phillips: “You think you know what’s going on, but you have no idea.” – Eli hints at the deep corruption and hidden agendas, suggesting the investigation is far more complex than it appears.
- Captain Robert Allen: “Let it go, Tom. For your own good.” – Allen tries to dissuade Tom from pursuing the case, foreshadowing the corruption within the police force and the danger Tom faces.
💰Box Office
- Budget: $50 million
- Domestic Gross: N/A
- Worldwide Gross: N/A
💥 Reptile Reviews
Personal Review
I was completely drawn into the world of Reptile. The slow burn really works, letting the tension build with each scene. Del Toro is fantastic, as usual, and the supporting cast is equally great. The ending did leave me with some unanswered questions, but overall, I really enjoyed the ride. Alicia Silverstone was such a pleasant surprise and I really liked the chemistry between her and Del Toro. The ‘Angel Of The Morning’ song was a great touch!
- Who would enjoy:
- “Fans of crime thrillers and police procedurals”
- “Viewers who enjoy movies with complex plots and multiple suspects”
- “Those interested in stories about police corruption and moral ambiguity”
- “Fans of Benicio Del Toro and Alicia Silverstone”
- Content warnings ⚠:
- “Graphic violence”
- “Strong language”
- “Drug use”
- “Suggestive Content”
Professional Reviews
- Variety: “A grim and atmospheric crime thriller, ‘Reptile’ distinguishes itself through its slow-burn tension and Benicio Del Toro’s compellingly nuanced performance as a detective grappling with moral complexities. While the plot occasionally meanders, the film maintains a grip on the viewer thanks to its stellar cast and haunting score.
- The Hollywood Reporter: “Though it boasts strong performances from Benicio Del Toro and Alicia Silverstone, ‘Reptile’ struggles to fully capitalize on its intriguing premise. The film’s deliberate pacing and numerous red herrings ultimately detract from its impact, leaving the audience with more questions than satisfying answers.
Audience Reactions
Benicio Del Toro’s performance as the troubled detective is captivating and steals the show.: The strong performances, especially from Del Toro and Silverstone, are consistently praised.
The film builds suspense effectively, keeping viewers guessing until the very end.: Many find the film to be a well-crafted thriller with unexpected twists and turns.
Overall Consensus: Reptile is a gripping crime thriller elevated by strong performances, though some find its slow pace and lingering questions to be drawbacks.
Awards
🛠️ Behind the Scenes
- “Benicio Del Toro co-wrote the screenplay for Reptile, marking a significant contribution to the film’s narrative and character development.”
- “Director Grant Singer made his feature film debut with Reptile, transitioning from a background primarily in music videos.”
- “The film explores themes of police corruption and moral ambiguity, delving into the complexities of law enforcement and its intersection with organized crime.”
🖥️ How to Watch Reptile?
Reptile is currently streaming on Netflix. Check local listings for potential television airings. As a Netflix original, physical copies for purchase are unlikely, however digital purchase options may become available on platforms like Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, or Google Play Movies in the future.

🎥 Similar Movies
If you enjoyed Reptile, you might like these similar films:
- Prisoners (2013): Both films feature a dark and suspenseful atmosphere, exploring themes of morality and desperation in the face of a crime.
- The Departed (2006): Features a complex web of police corruption and undercover operations, mirroring Reptile’s exploration of compromised law enforcement.
- Gone Baby Gone (2007): Shares a gritty and realistic portrayal of crime investigation in a specific regional setting, with moral ambiguities.
🛒 Reptile Related Products
- Reptile (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack): Immerse yourself in the film’s atmospheric tension with the complete soundtrack. Includes haunting scores and featured tracks, such as Angel of the Morning.
- Benicio Del Toro Signed ‘Sicario’ Movie Poster: Own a piece of Benicio Del Toro’s filmography with a signed movie poster from Sicario. It showcases his intense performances and would be a great item for collectors.
- Real Estate Agent Starter Kit: Channel your inner Summer Elswick. Includes business card holder, ‘For Sale’ sign, and motivational quote pen to get you started in the exciting world of real estate!
- Detective Tom Nichols Inspired Trench Coat: Embody the enigmatic style of Detective Tom Nichols with a classic trench coat. Perfect for adding a touch of mystery to your wardrobe. Made from durable material to withstand any investigation.
🎧 Soundtrack
Reptile features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:
- “Angel Of The Morning” – performed by Evie Sands
- “The Oogum Boogum Song” – performed by Brenton Wood
You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.
🤨 FAQ
Summer Elswick was killed as part of a larger conspiracy to cover up a money laundering scheme involving corrupt police officers and the Grady family’s real estate business. She was murdered to prevent her from exposing their criminal activities to the authorities.
The title ‘Reptile’ is metaphorical, suggesting the cold-blooded and calculating nature of the characters involved in the criminal conspiracy. It also alludes to the idea of shedding skin, representing the layers of deceit and hidden identities within the story.
While the film is not directly based on a specific true story, it draws inspiration from common themes in crime thrillers, such as police corruption, real estate fraud, and the complexities of criminal investigations. The director has stated the themes of corruption in this film are inspired by true events.
The ending scene of Detective Nichols dipping his hands in wax is open to interpretation. One theory is that it symbolizes him trying to remove any traces of the gunfight, symbolizing closure to the case and avoiding any further scrutiny. Another theory is that it is in line with the title of the film.
🔥 Bonus Content
Reptile | Benicio Del Toro & Justin Timberlake | Official Trailer | Netflix
Get a sneak peek into the thrilling world of Reptile with this official trailer featuring Benicio Del Toro and Justin Timberlake. It’s a gripping mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
REPTILE Trailer (2023) Justin Timberlake, Benicio Del Toro
If you’re a fan of crime thrillers, you won’t want to miss this trailer for Reptile. With Justin Timberlake and Benicio Del Toro in the lead roles, it promises to be a suspenseful ride.
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