The Ice Harvest

Synopsis

Set during a frosty Christmas Eve in Wichita, Kansas, 'The Ice Harvest' follows Charlie Arglist, a slick and cynical mob lawyer portrayed by John Cusack. Disillusioned and desperate for a way out, Charlie teams up with his shady accomplice, Vic, played by Billy Bob Thornton, to execute a heist that promises to be his ticket to freedom. As the night unfolds, Charlie's plans quickly spiral out of control amidst a backdrop of deceit, betrayal, and paranoia. Caught in a web of criminal underworld tensions, Charlie must navigate not only his ambitions but also the looming threat of law enforcement and dangerous associates. With the city covered in ice and snow, the chilling atmosphere mirrors Charlie's internal conflict and moral dilemmas. 'The Ice Harvest' masterfully blends dark comedy with noir elements while exploring themes of greed, trust, and unforeseen consequences, keeping viewers engaged until the last frosty moment.

Cast

• 

  John Cusack

  Charlie

• 

  Billy Bob Thornton

  Vic

• 

  Connie Nielsen

  Renata Crest

• 

  Randy Quaid

  Bill Guerrard

• 

  Oliver Platt

  Pete Van Heuten

• 

  Mike Starr

  Roy Gelles

Reviews

Critics' reception of 'The Ice Harvest' is mixed, reflecting both its intriguing premise and uneven execution. Rotten Tomatoes rates the film at 68% based on critic reviews, indicating a generally favorable response albeit with some reservations. According to Metacritic, it holds a score of 62/100, suggesting 'generally favorable reviews.' The Washington Post praised the film's darkly comedic tone, stating, 'The icy atmosphere and Cusack’s suave performance deliver a blend of laughs and suspense.' Conversely, some reviewers criticized the film for pacing issues, with Ebert & Roeper noting that it 'fails to fully capitalize on its winter noir premise.' Despite its flaws, the performances of Cusack and Thornton received acclaim. IMDb users rate the film 6.2/10, indicating a divided audience reaction. This mix of strong performances with a story loaded with twists offers a compelling, albeit flawed cinematic experience that leaves viewers contemplating the depths of human greed.