The Dutchman is the second 2026 release I watched and reviewed in the same day, and it's a film that left me deeply confused about its intent, themes, and overall execution. Despite a strong cast, the movie never finds narrative footing and quickly collapses under the weight of its own ambiguity. Starring Kate Mara and André Holland, the film presents a story that constantly shifts identities and roles without explanation. The therapist becomes the bartender, then a prisoner, then possibly something spiritual-but never clearly defined. The film toys with the idea that Mara's character may be a demon, but refuses to commit to that idea or clarify whether it's metaphor, reality, or projection. Tonally, The Dutchman is all over the place. At times it feels socially charged, bordering on uncomfortable racial commentary, while at other moments it veers into awkwardly explicit territory that feels closer to softcore provocation than meaningful storytelling. These tonal swings aren't purposeful-they're disorienting. Rather than challenging the audience, the film seems unsure of what it wants to say, or even who it wants to speak to. The direction feels reactive rather than intentional. Instead of guiding the audience through a complex psychological narrative, the film appears to constantly readjust itself, losing coherence with each shift. By the time it reaches the final act, the story has unraveled so completely that the ending lands with confusion rather than impact. It simply stops, offering no resolution, clarity, or thematic payoff. The screenplay is the film's weakest element. It's erratic, overwritten, and relentlessly back-and-forth, never allowing ideas to develop or connect. Scenes feel stitched together without purpose, and by the end, it's nearly impossible to articulate what actually happened or why it mattered. The only consistent strength is the acting. Both Mara and Holland deliver committed, focused performances despite the material working against them. Their chemistry and presence are the only reasons the film remains watchable at all. Ultimately, The Dutchman is a messy, unfocused experience that mistakes confusion for depth. While the performances deserve credit, the film itself is difficult to recommend. This is not a theatrical must-see-if curiosity gets the better of you, it's best saved for streaming, where expectations can be kept firmly in check.

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