Joel Kinnaman has carved out a niche playing characters who seem to have been through the wringer before the opening credits even roll. From RoboCop to Altered Carbon, he's mastered the art of portraying bruised, battle-weary men. But one of his most compelling performances might be in The Informer, a crime thriller that's now finding a new audience on streaming.
Released internationally in 2019 and in the U.S. the following year, The Informer didn't exactly set the box office on fire. In fact, it was a commercial disappointment, earning just $2.9 million worldwide against a reported $60 million budget. But as is often the case, streaming has given this underappreciated gem a second chance. Now, it's charting globally on Prime Video, and it's easy to see why.
A High-Stakes Undercover Mission
Kinnaman stars as Pete Koslow, a former Special Operations soldier turned convict who agrees to work as an informant for the FBI. His mission: infiltrate the Polish mafia's drug operation in New York City. But when an undercover cop is killed during a botched sting, Pete finds himself caught between federal agents, the mob, and the NYPD. His solution? Go back to prison to get closer to the cartel from the inside. It's a plan that sounds foolproof, right? Well, as you might expect, things get complicated.
The film boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Rosamund Pike as FBI agent Erica Wilcox, Common as Edward Grens, Ana de Armas as Pete's wife Sofia, and Clive Owen as Keith Montgomery. Each actor brings depth to their roles, making the tense cat-and-mouse game all the more gripping.
Why It's Worth Your Time
While The Informer received mixed reviews from critics (62% on Rotten Tomatoes) and audiences (63%), it's a taut, well-crafted thriller that deserves a spot on your watchlist. The plot is full of twists and turns, and Kinnaman's performance is raw and compelling. If you're a fan of Tom Hardy's underrated crime thriller The Drop, you'll likely appreciate this one too.
For those who enjoy high-stakes heists and double-crosses, The Informer fits right in with heist thrillers with jaw-dropping plot twists. It's a movie that keeps you on the edge of your seat, and it's a testament to Kinnaman's range as an actor.
Where to Watch
Currently, The Informer is streaming on Amazon Prime Video in the United States, including the ad-supported tier. It's also available on Starz, YouTube TV, and select Amazon channels. If you prefer to own or rent, you can find it on Apple TV and Fandango at Home.
So, if you're looking for a gripping crime thriller to watch this August, give The Informer a shot. It might not have been a box office hit, but it's certainly a streaming success story.
