Luther: The Fallen Sun
Spin-off to British cop show is full of threat and violence.
Luther: The Fallen Sun
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Luther: The Fallen Sun is a spin-off of the British TV cop drama -- starring Idris Elba -- with violent scenes and threat throughout. Elba returns as DCI John Luther who, after breaking out of prison, is on the hunt for sadistic serial killer, David Robey (Andy Serkis). There are scenes of torture, kidnap, and murder, as well as threats and recounts of sexual violence. Robey blackmails and manipulates his victims, mostly by acquiring damaging information from them online or hacking into their devices. His end goal is to stream his victims torturing each other to an online underground group. There are fights involving punches, headbutts, and weapons, and people are set on fire and jump to their deaths from high buildings. Expect strong language, including "pr--k," and variants of "f--k" and "s--t." Those familiar with the TV show will know that Luther is good at his job, but isn't against breaking the rules. However, prior knowledge of the show is not essential. Luther is helped by Odette Raine (Cynthia Erivo), a smart and courageous Black woman who heads up the police unit.
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What's the Story?
In LUTHER: THE FALLEN SUN, Detective Chief Inspector John Luther's (Idris Elba) wrongdoings come back to haunt him when he is sent to prison. But with a sadistic serial killer on the loose -- and one who seemingly wants Luther's attention -- Luther breaks out, determined to bring the killer to justice.
Is It Any Good?
Four years after the popular TV show seemingly concluded with season five, DCI John Luther is back in a movie spin-off. Those familiar with the show will know what to expect from Luther: The Fallen Sun: gruesome murders leading to a dangerous cat and mouse chase led by Elba's titular character. But even those new to the show will be able to enjoy this action-packed, adrenaline-rushing crime drama. All newcomers need to know is that Luther is a good copper, who does bad things, but for the right reasons. This time the detective must first get himself out of prison, having found himself banged up for his past discrepancies. But that turns out to be the least of his problems with Andy Serkis' deranged serial killer blackmailing, torturing, and killing victims he traps online. It's not for the fainthearted, and the central plot about a group of underground voyeurs watching people tortured and murdered online asks questions about the film itself. It's also far-fetched in places. But there's no denying there's a joy to see the maverick cop -- in his iconic grey trench coat and red tie -- back on our screens.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Luther: The Fallen Sun. Did the violent scenes help tell the story in an effective way? Were there repercussions for those responsible for the violence? Why does that matter? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
The movie is a spin-off of the TV show Luther. Had you seen the show before watching this movie? How did this compare? What did it add to the story?
Discuss the language used in the movie. Did it seem necessary, or excessive? What did it contribute to the movie?
The internet and how we behave on it is a key plot point. What do you understand the term "digital footprint" to mean? Why must we be careful of what we do online?
Movie Details
- In theaters: February 24, 2023
- On DVD or streaming: March 10, 2023
- Cast: Idris Elba, Cynthia Erivo, Andy Serkis
- Director: Jamie Payne
- Studio: Netflix
- Genre: Drama
- Run time: 129 minutes
- MPAA rating: R
- MPAA explanation: disturbing/violent content, language and some sexual material
- Last updated: March 14, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
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Luther
Excellent British cop series with blood and some intimacy.
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Die Hard
Bruce Willis' breakout film has guns, violence, stereotypes.
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Lethal Weapon
Mismatched cops spar in violent '80s action hit.
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