This film takes a new approach to the backstory of Ted Kaczynski (played by Jacob Tremblay). While there’s a focus on the FBI’s search (driven by Shailene Woodley), it also posits that something happened when he was a 16-year-old Freshman at Harvard. He was part of psychological experiments (led by Russell Crowe) that may have shaped his worldview and mental stability. While the nationwide search is presented as a rather bland procedural, the college experience provides more interesting interactions. Tremblay, who you may remember as the little boy in “Room” (my 5-star review), creates another impressive performance, while Crowe uses his charismatic power as the mentor. Woodley plays it steely. While this film presents an interesting angle, other than the performances, it lacks much dramatic punch. 2.5 out of 5.0 stars
