BLACK DIAMOND

(director/writer: Judd Bloch; cinematographer: David J. Myrick; editors: Andy Palmer, Denis Henry Hennelly; cast: Inbar Levi (Elena Lavi), Michael James Bell (Tomas), Tristan Cunningham (Depuiy Sheriff Thompson), Ray Panthaki (Spencer), Jake McLaughlin (Jesse); Runtime: 89; MPAA Rating: NR; producers: Warner Davis, Todd M. Friedman, Brian Levy, Dominic Rustam; Brainstorm Media/VOD; 2025)

“Manages to glide by its dull spots.”

Reviewed by Dennis Schwartz

Judd Bloch’s debut as a feature film director. It’s an awkward erotic thriller that suffers from a few stumbles. The B-film at times flashes noir elements. The stunning photography of its beautiful mountain vistas and its chilling atmosphere makes it somewhat appealing, even if its familiar story probably won’t thrill all viewers.

The attractive Elena (Inbar Levi) goes with her arrogant, privileged, wealthy hedge fund boyfriend Spencer (Ray Panthaki) to his secluded luxury ski cabin in the snowy Telluride setting in Colorado. Elena is soon attracted to the macho cowboy handyman Jesse (Jake McLaughlin), who is gainfully employed by the rich tourist lodgers needing his useful services. The two working-class types begin a secret affair soon after meeting, which leads to murder and a conflict over the gap between social classes.

The film believes money is the root of evil, as it explores matters of obsession, greed and temptation. It plays with Spencer, who brags about how he bought this million dollar art piece by ripping off the owner.

There are some surprises and twists, as it manages to glide by its dull spots with the ease of a downhill racer looking over his shoulder at the finishing line. I mildly enjoyed it as an escapist film, but found it poorly written, unconvincing and forgettable.

REVIEWED ON 1/17/2025  GRADE: C+
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