Spenser Confidential

Movie Trailer

Release Date
March 6, 2020

Genre
Action, Comedy, Crime

Cast & Crew

• Mark Wahlberg as Spenser
• Winston Duke as Hawk
• Alan Arkin as Henry Cimoli
• Iliza Shlesinger as Cissy Davis
• Bokeem Woodbine as Driscoll
• Marc Maron as Wayne Cosgrove
• Post Malone (Austin Post) as Squeeb

Director
Peter Berg

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Lone Survivor (2013)
• Deepwater Horizon (2016)
• Patriots Day (2016)
• Hancock (2008)
• Friday Night Lights (2004)

Producer
Neal H. Moritz, Peter Berg, Mark Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson, Toby Ascher

Writer
Sean O’Keefe, Brian Helgeland (screenplay), based on the novel Wonderland by Ace Atkins and the character created by Robert B. Parker

Budget
Estimated at $85 million

Production Company
Netflix, Original Film, Leverage Entertainment

Running Time
111 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Strong violence
• Language
• Drug use

Movie Story
“Spenser Confidential” is a fast-paced action-comedy that follows the story of Spenser (Mark Wahlberg), a former Boston police officer who has just been released from prison after serving time for assaulting his corrupt captain. Determined to leave his troubled past behind and start anew, Spenser plans to move out of Boston and pursue a quiet life as a truck driver. However, his plans are derailed when two of his former colleagues are murdered under suspicious circumstances.

Unable to ignore his instincts for justice, Spenser teams up with Hawk (Winston Duke), a no-nonsense MMA fighter and Spenser’s new roommate, and Henry Cimoli (Alan Arkin), his old boxing coach and mentor. Together, they dive into the gritty underbelly of Boston to uncover the truth behind the murders. The investigation leads them into a web of corruption involving dirty cops, drug dealers, and a powerful real estate mogul.

As Spenser and Hawk get closer to the truth, they encounter numerous obstacles, including violent confrontations, car chases, and shootouts. Despite the danger, Spenser remains determined to expose the corruption and bring the killers to justice, even if it means risking his life and freedom.

Throughout the film, the dynamic between Spenser and Hawk provides much of the humor and heart. Their contrasting personalities—Spenser’s streetwise, determined attitude and Hawk’s laid-back but fierce demeanor—make for an entertaining buddy-cop duo. The film also explores Spenser’s complicated relationship with his ex-girlfriend, Cissy Davis (Iliza Shlesinger), who adds another layer of humor and tension to the story.

“Spenser Confidential” is a blend of action, comedy, and crime thriller elements, with a plot that mixes high-octane action sequences with moments of levity and character-driven humor. The film culminates in a climactic showdown where Spenser and Hawk confront the villains behind the conspiracy, leading to a satisfying, albeit predictable, resolution.

Special Effects
The special effects in “Spenser Confidential” are largely focused on the action sequences, which include explosive car chases, hand-to-hand combat, and shootouts. The film uses practical effects combined with CGI to create dynamic and thrilling action scenes that are integral to the story. The choreography of the fight scenes is particularly noteworthy, showcasing the physicality of both Mark Wahlberg and Winston Duke.

Box Office Performance
As a Netflix original film, “Spenser Confidential” did not have a traditional box office release. However, it became one of the most-watched films on the platform upon its release, quickly gaining popularity with viewers. The film’s blend of action, comedy, and crime elements, along with Mark Wahlberg’s star power, helped it reach a wide audience and sparked discussions about potential sequels.

Filming Locations

• Boston, Massachusetts, USA
• Weymouth, Massachusetts, USA
• Braintree, Massachusetts, USA

Notable Quotes

• “If you say ‘shenanigans’ one more time, I’m gonna pistol whip you.” – Spenser
• “You’re doing what’s right, that’s what you do.” – Hawk
• “I’m a tough guy, but I’m not an idiot.” – Spenser

Behind-the-Scenes
“Spenser Confidential” marks the fifth collaboration between director Peter Berg and Mark Wahlberg, following films like Lone Survivor and Patriots Day. The film draws inspiration from the Spenser character created by Robert B. Parker, who has been a staple of crime fiction for decades. While the film takes some creative liberties, it stays true to the spirit of the source material, focusing on Spenser’s unyielding sense of justice and his willingness to go to great lengths to uncover the truth.

Awards

• Nominated for a Critics’ Choice Super Award (Best Actor in an Action Movie – Mark Wahlberg)

Final Verdict
“Spenser Confidential” is an entertaining action-comedy that delivers exactly what it promises: fast-paced action, witty banter, and a solid dose of humor. While it doesn’t break new ground in the crime thriller genre, it’s a fun and engaging film that fans of Mark Wahlberg and buddy-cop movies will enjoy. The chemistry between Wahlberg and Winston Duke is a highlight, making it a worthwhile watch for those looking for an action-packed, light-hearted film.

IMDb Rating
6.2/10