[Fantasia] ‘A Witness Out of the Blue’ review: Polly want a murder?

A Witness Out of the Blue wastes no time letting the audience know they are going to be in for something different. A colorful parrot fills the screen as sinister music plays. It is a striking dichotomy that almost forces the audience to pay attention. This contrast continues throughout the entire movie. A Witness Out of the Blue is a crime thriller screening at the Fantasia Film Festival. The mystery centers around a named Sean Wong who is suspected of murder. Thankfully, there was someone at the scene of the crime. The problem is the eye witness is a talking parrot.

It is an interesting premise that is a set up for lots of laughs and intrigue. The movie is filled with ample supplies of both. The script sees the cops and robbers trying to solve the same riddle. This is usually an entertaining premise and it works here. The clashing tones can be problematic at times, but A Witness Out of the Blue never ceases to be enjoyable.

Director Fung Chih-chiang does a masterful job. There are great set pieces that give the movie a big Hollywood feel. A Witness Out of the Blue almost has a blockbuster action movie look to it. The more intimate scenes are also well done. This is never a case of style over substance. As good as the movie looks, the story does a great job of keeping audiences engaged the entire time.

In a story as wacky as A Witness Out of the Blue, the characters will ultimately determine how well the film works. There are definitely some strong characters here. The bumbling cop and charismatic thief will be found. That is also what prevents the movie from being something truly special. The characters do not go out of their way to be memorable.

Ultimately, that is the best way to describe the film. A Witness Out of the Blue will not wow anyone with its layered story and surprises. It lacks with twists and turns normally seen in a thriller. But that is not necessarily a bad thing.  It will provide a great time and a very fun mystery. And even a talking parrot would be pleased with that.