Luther: The Fallen Sun is a movie spin-off of the popular British detective television series Luther. It is directed by Jamie Payne and written by show co-creator Neil Cross. It had a limited theatrical run through BBC Films before being streamed to Netflix.

British police detective John Luther (Idris Elba) is arrested for various indiscretions made during his time on the force while investigating a kidnap victim. Unknown to him, wealthy serial killer David Robey (Andy Serkis) orchestrated his conviction and jail time using blackmail to stop him from solving the case. Years later, the several kidnapped victims’ families are lured to an abandoned where they find the bodies of their missing loved ones and watch as they burn. Luther makes contact with DCI Odette Raine (Cynthia Erivo) who has taken over his unit. She refuses his aid, but feeling guilty over not solving the case, Luther escapes from prison. Raine contacts her predecessor Martin Schenk (Dermot Crowley) to help her find Luther and solve the case. When Robey realizes Luther is out, he plans on making the investigation very personal.

If you are a fan of the television show as I am, then you had high expectations for this film. When I heard that they were making a movie, I honestly did not know what to think. Film spin-off of movies can be hit or miss, just look at the Star Trek franchise. I can honestly say that this one is a hit with me.

Idris Elba jumps into the role like he never left it. He perfectly encapsulates John Luther and his drive at wanting to solve the mystery. Here, Luther is much more experience and jaded. He is not necessarily interested in justice, but just wants to stop the bad guy.

Like, Andy Serkis is excellent as the villain. He had this frightening air about him and though he appears to be the everyman, he most certainly is not. Serkis has a way of projecting creepiness that is rare among actors and his character proved to be a troubling opponent to Luther.

Now the movie does retcon why John Luther was arrested, but not to the point where it completely obliterates the series finale. It just adds the fact that Robey was involved with getting Luther sent to prison so he could continue his nefarious plots. As a fan of the show, this did not really bother me.

Looking at it from a movie perspective, I can honestly say that I enjoyed it. I’m not prepared to put it on my “best of” list, but I do think it is a solid movie that keeps you hooked to the characters and the event unfolding before you. I did not look at my phone once, finding myself enthralled with what was going on.

Bottom line, Luther: The Fallen Sun is a solid as a continuation of the television show and as a movie on its own. Idris Elbas does not miss a beat and brings it all to an epic climax.

PARENTAL CONCERNS: Some bloody violence, Minor foul language, Disturbing images

FAVORITE QUOTE: It’s still my case.

Check out the trailer below:

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