In an era where the pursuit of attention reigned supreme, the media always needed to be a step ahead.
On the second day of the film's release, the entertainment sections of major newspapers were flooded with coverage of "Miscreant".
This convergence of sensationalism and essential publicity from Paramount Pictures created an undeniable stir, a catalyst for fervent discourse.
At the break of dawn, within the corner newsstand along Los Angeles Boulevard, newspapers meticulously arranged in neat stacks, the headline of the entertainment section in the Chicago Tribune caught the eye: "Is Gray Black or White? Good and Evil, Truth and Fiction—Which Holds Greater Significance?"
This review held an entire spread, its author named Bella, a rising female film critic.
"Films depicting undercover operations are abundant, yet "Miscreant" sets itself apart in my eyes.
Previously, when watching undercover police officers making selfless sacrifices, risking it all, though one would empathize with justice and belief, an undeniable sense of confinement lingered during the viewing.
The side upholding justice, regardless of eventual victory, bore a monumental cost during the undercover process.
Internal struggles, alienation from kin, and the ambivalence of camaraderie with foes.
Human beings are not mere plants or trees; who can claim immunity from sentiment? It is precisely this torment arising from inner interrogations that breeds psychological tension and unease. This appears exceedingly cruel for an ordinary person with ordinary emotions.
And the first half of "Miscreant" is indeed suffocating.
Eight years undercover, eight years of endurance, finally nearing the end of those shadowed days, only to be met with new orders to persist in concealment, devoid of negotiation. A spouse falls victim to the underworld conflict; the dearest brother of the fraternity, also his perceived elder brother, the third-in-command, succumbs to police manipulation, and he can do naught. He infiltrates the syndicate at the risk of his life, with only a handful of top-ranking officers aware of his true identity. He begins to doubt: for whom does he truly lay his life on the line?
Hence, the chap refuses. Why must I sacrifice so much? Who shall share my pain, solitude, and fear? How can I save my brethren? How shall my shattered family mend? How much longer must this dismal existence persist? Damn notions of justice and belief! I shall seize command of my own destiny, even if the path leads to darkness.
From a universal perspective, such notions are untenable. After all, combating evil forces contributes to society, to humanity; it's noble and grand. But from an individual standpoint, to dedicate one's life for so-called justice—undercover work truly epitomizes the essence of a solitary hero, living a life of ups and downs.
Is it worthwhile? Who can tell.
Moreover, the characters within this film are remarkably well-sculpted; beyond the undercover agent, I wish to discuss the third-in-command.
A mafia leader, seemingly a roughneck, his thug-like demeanor pronounced.
In an era glorifying self-interest, where today one's a brother and tomorrow a backstabber, such instances are commonplace.
But he's different; he values promises and loyalty, admonishing his subordinates on his deathbed, those already privy to his undercover identity, "to survive, one must be ruthless". Unable to embrace brutality himself, he implores his brother to be unfeeling. In this moment, an inexplicable fondness for him blossoms. A man with flesh and blood, replete with emotion and duty, bearing desires and sorrows.
As the tale concludes, let us summarize.
"Miscreant" is wicked in its unpredictability, defying conventional norms.
Who claims that justice always triumphs, that good folks must unwaveringly adhere to their beliefs?
And who asserts that wrongdoers are invariably irredeemable, devoid of sentiment?
Each character embodies a living, breathing individual, possessed of their stances, pondering, evolving.
The boundaries between darkness and light have never been so stark.
In closing, I implore everyone to experience this film at the cinema."
...
In her study, Bella placed the latest issue of the Chicago Tribune into the cabinet, arranging it meticulously.
Her columns found their place here, a form of remembrance and a wellspring of accomplishment.
After dinner that night, Bella returned to her bedroom and settled down before her computer. With a click of her mouse, she opened several box office websites, including IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes, along with other review platforms.
Being a film critic, she had cultivated a habit of delving into the data presented by movie-related news sites.
First on her list was the mainstream IMDb.
She found the title of "Miscreant" on the homepage and navigated to its dedicated page.
Suddenly, her eyes brightened.
A rating of 9.0 out of 10, based on 1323 reviews—indicating an overwhelming majority had awarded it high marks.
A smile of satisfaction tugged at Bella's lips. After a moment of contemplation, she assigned a score of 8.8.
Of course, a 9.0 was perhaps overly optimistic, especially on the first day with limited reviews. According to typical trends, the overall rating would likely experience a decline. Yet, with the film quality of "Miscreant", it was foreseeable to settle around 8.6 to 8.8... A score well-earned for a classic within its genre. "Miscreant" undoubtedly warranted such acclaim.
She glanced through IMDb's audience comments, predominantly positive.
"I spent an unforgettable two and a half hours in the theater."
"While I find the director rather ruthless, I cannot deny that this is a great film."
"The undercover agent's transformation at the end was so satisfying. If not for the public setting, I would've excitedly shouted."
It seemed that Director Lyman's work was poised for success once more. Bella, with a thoughtful expression, proceeded to open Rotten Tomatoes' page. Unlike IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes emphasized the opinions and evaluations of industry insiders.
After perusing it for a while, a slight upward twitch of her lips betrayed her satisfaction. Critics' score: 87%. Audience approval: 95%. A double-green emblem from Rotten Tomatoes indicated it was "Certified Fresh".
Naturally, these initial figures only hinted at the eventual outcome. Many critics might not have watched the film yet, let alone die-hard fans.
However, at the very least, Bella could discern that most professionals in the industry held well-balanced opinions when evaluating.
"Miscreant" and its unique approach seemed to have struck a chord, an itch to scratch, one might say.
After revisiting a few more professional movie websites, Bella shut her laptop and stretched her body, feeling a sense of comfort.
Witnessing the recognition received by the work of her favorite director was truly gratifying.
After a refreshing shower, Bella lay on her plush bed, still brimming with delight. She mused, "I wonder what future surprises this will bring me? I'm truly looking forward to it, Director Lyman."
Goodnight, sweet dreams.