Keanu Reeves frowns quite a lot

as a detective in this plot.

Exposed, the title, draws us in.

A partner killed. Who did the sin?    

Holding the key to this sad case,

a mystery gal he must face.

But who is she? Where does she live?

Answers no one seems glad to give.  

Seeing things that don’t make much sense,

the lady suffers in silence.

We hope that she will be at peace.

It all depends on the police.

Exposed exudes such murkiness

that it ends up a downer mess.

Fine actors should be given more

than gloomy scenes that tend to bore.     

Although confusing and very difficult to follow, Exposed features convincing actors who try to help us navigate through a befuddling story about sexual abuse and police corruption. Reeves may seem uncomfortable as Detective Galban, but this character has every reason to feel that way. Galban’s investigation into the murder of his partner is fraught with dirty little secrets including his own relationship with his late partner’s wife (Mira Sorvino).

Ana de Armas (Anabel) plays Isabel, the Cuban woman Galban wants to interview in connection with this case. She’s the sister-in-law of his prime suspect (Gabe Vargas) -- and surreal creatures seem to be following her around lately. Unfortunately, it takes much too long for Galban and Isabel to finally connect. In the meantime, their sections of Exposed could be two separate films. 

This is the first time I’ve seen the beautiful Ana de Armas. She’s an impressive on-screen presence. During her interactions with the little girl Isabel wants to protect from an abusive father, she projects a compelling combination of tenderness and fear. Her strong religious faith comes through in many scenes. Plus, her reaction to those strange visions she sees appears very real. We can’t help feeling empathy for Isabel, even though we don’t understand what’s happening to her.

It’s important to mention that the director of Exposed withdrew his real name from the film.  He intended the movie to be a surreal bi-lingual drama rather than a crime thriller. But the powers that be wanted the latter, so it was edited their way. No wonder the result turned out to be so jumbled.                   

(Released by Lionsgate Premiere and rated “R” for violence including a sexual assault, and for language.)

For more information about Exposed, go to the IMDb or Rotten Tomatoes website. 

NOTE:  Click here to read my review of Daughter of God, the director's cut version.