{"id":1070,"date":"2020-10-26T08:00:00","date_gmt":"2020-10-26T07:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.senses.se\/en\/review-the-tax-collector-bd\/"},"modified":"2025-05-09T11:38:29","modified_gmt":"2025-05-09T09:38:29","slug":"review-the-tax-collector-bd","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.senses.se\/en\/review-the-tax-collector-bd\/","title":{"rendered":"Review: The Tax Collector (BD)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Director and screenwriter David Ayer<\/strong> previously penned the screenplay for Training Day<\/a><\/strong>, a film lauded by many, including members of our editorial team. Denzel Washington<\/strong> won an Oscar for his portrayal of the anti-hero Alonzo in that film. However, in the intervening years, Ayer’s subsequent work, particularly the critically panned Suicide Squad<\/strong>, which he both wrote and directed, has not reached the same heights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Tax Collector<\/strong> marks Ayer’s return as both director and writer, set within a similar milieu to Training Day<\/em>, with certain characters crossing over between the two films.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

David (Bobby Soto)<\/strong> and Creeper (Shia LaBeouf)<\/strong> function as Tax Collectors<\/strong>, tasked with collecting dues from various gangs across Los Angeles<\/strong> on behalf of a local crime boss. The work is inherently dangerous, and David relies on Creeper for protection. The dynamic shifts when a new, more powerful gangster arrives, jeopardizing David and his family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

David Ayer often focuses on anti-hero protagonists, and The Tax Collector<\/em> is no exception. David and Creeper are morally ambiguous figures. The film juxtaposes David’s domestic life, where he presents as a normal and pleasant individual, with his ruthless professional persona. This duality creates a sense of uncertainty; it’s difficult to definitively support or condemn his actions and the consequences he faces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Tax Collector<\/em> features graphic violence and bloodshed, employing a blend of practical and computer-generated effects. The action sequences are well-executed and innovatively shot. Shia LaBeouf delivers a compelling performance as the unhinged Creeper. While Labeouf fully commits to the role, even sporting a significant chest tattoo (briefly visible), the character’s potential feels underutilized, particularly towards the film’s conclusion. Many of the character’s initial promises are ultimately unfulfilled.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Blu-ray<\/strong> release offers a satisfactory visual experience, with a sharp and detailed image. The film’s muted aesthetic, characterized by strong contrasts, is well-represented. The DTS-HD<\/strong> audio track is clean and delivers impactful bass during action sequences. Regrettably, the extras are limited to four inconsequential deleted scenes, the removal of which is understandable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Overall, The Tax Collector<\/em> proves to be a somewhat underwhelming experience, despite its relatively short runtime. The ending feels abrupt and incomplete, and the film’s most intriguing character is ultimately sidelined. Consequently, the final rating reflects these shortcomings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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