‘Normal’: Bob Odenkirk Action Thriller Lands Killer Rotten Tomatoes Score

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Bob Odenkirk is proving himself to be a surprising action star with his new film, Normal, directed by Ben Wheatley. Despite its title, the movie is a fast-paced thriller that was a hit with audiences when it premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September. It recently screened at the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, giving more critics a chance to see it and confirm Odenkirk’s potential as an action leading man.

Bob Odenkirk, known for his work in comedy and drama, surprised audiences by becoming an action star with his role in the 2021 film Nobody. This led to more action roles, including a sequel, Nobody 2, where his character found himself facing off against a corrupt theme park owner, a dishonest sheriff, and a dangerous crime boss. Now, in Normal, Odenkirk plays a sheriff who uncovers a large criminal plot in what seems like a peaceful small town – a town that’s hiding some dark secrets beneath its calm appearance.

Sheriff Ulysses hoped his temporary assignment to the seemingly peaceful town of Normal, in the American Midwest, would offer a break from problems with his marriage and the trauma he’d experienced on the job. However, when a failed bank robbery shatters the town’s calm, a dark secret is revealed, and Ulysses discovers Normal isn’t what it appears to be. Soon, everyone – even his own deputies – seems to be trying to kill him, and the sheriff must team up with an unlikely group of criminals if he wants to make it through the night. And that’s just the beginning – the Yakuza are also on their way.

The new film Normal is getting excellent reviews and a high score of 82% on Rotten Tomatoes before it even hits theaters next month. Critics are praising its intense and over-the-top violence, as well as its darkly comedic and unpredictable style, comparing it to films like Fargo and Hot Fuzz. Reviewers highlight that Bob Odenkirk not only delivers the action required of a leading man but also grounds the film amidst the chaos, cementing his transition into an action star. Ed Travis from Cinapse even suggests it’s Odenkirk’s best action movie yet, saying Normal is everything he hoped the Nobody films would be.

At 90 minutes long, the movie hits what many consider the ideal length for a feature film, based on a 2024 survey. Rachel Tolleson of The Mary Sue praises it as a worthwhile watch, describing Normal as both enjoyable and fast-paced, and a great way to spend 90 minutes, especially as it gains momentum. Gregory Nussen from Screen Rant credits much of the film’s success to the director’s skill, noting that Wheatley’s technical expertise elevates the movie beyond its ordinary premise into something truly unique.


Magnolia Pictures

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2026-03-18 15:37