Mysteries and film noir go hand in hand. In many ways, the quintessential detective movie is predicated on the need for those two elements to be swirling in the cinematic atmosphere. Even as we return with our pitcher for the well, we never tire of the blend of genres and styles. When done well, it can be something monumental, a la Chinatown. Still, even ones that do not reach those breathless heights, if done in earnest and with conviction, can be worthwhile. This is the case with The Daughters of the Domino, a debut film from a new director who cuts his teeth in this world. The result is a film that, at the very least, is made with tremendous love and care.
A notorious serial killer known as The Domino meets his end. Ironically, the person making the arrest is none other than the killer’s daughter – Detective Nina Rose (Miranda Moffat). In a career-defining event, Nina becomes something of a folk hero, yet these rewards are not without consequences. Caught in the crosshairs of fame and success is her sister, Laura (Lucie Gillespie). Their relationship hits rock bottom, and ultimately, they fray. However, families are the ties that bind. When Nina’s niece Jules (Ashley Poulin) goes missing, the two sisters must work together. Not only must they follow Jules’s trail, but they must also contend with a new killer in town. This leads to an earth-shattering confrontation with their pasts.
There are elements of film noir in this story that illustrate director Jesse McAnally’s cinematic flourishes. Despite budget constraints, the film boasts a moody atmosphere with running shadows. Even though the setting largely ditches an urban backdrop for a small town, there is a charming quality to this switch. The suburbs are often portrayed as a facade in films, particularly when a looming threat or the presence of evil is at stake. The ideal setting and pronouncements of safety go out the window, and here, The Daughters of the Domino leans hard into this reaction.
Further, the creation of Detective Rose is an updated take on the hardboiled detective trope. Nina ditches cigarettes for vaping. Still, this Mike Hammer-esque creation is tough as nails, even in the confines of a 21st-century techno-infused world. Moffat gives life to a character that could otherwise be divisive, stemming from the complicated family dynamic vis-à-vis her and her sister.
Yet, to their credit, Moffat and McAnally create a character that feels fully evolved and in the vein of other cinematic sleuths. Still, there is a clever use of twists and reveals that shake this detective to her core. In a way, the film flips the solo detective trope by introducing other characters and viewpoints. This not only creates divergent opinions and narratives but also a much broader and more fulfilling story.
For some viewers, the film’s pacing may pose more of a challenge than an intriguing mystery. There is a meticulous effort to establish both the characters in the piece and the world. In many ways, the film strips away the veneer of a classic mystery film to tell something much more profound. The film is a journey that becomes much more than piecing together clues or unpacking a backstory. The ending will likely come as no surprise, but, as with the film, it is about the journey with these characters rather than the third-act reveal.
The Daughters of the Domino unfolds in a manner that ironically is like setting up a row of dominoes. There is careful thought and precision in the story, leading to a satisfying conclusion, much like watching a row of dominoes fall. For a debut film, McAnally shows a clear grasp of the genre while crafting a story that is entirely original and thoughtful. Mechanically, the film is fine. Moreover, the stylistic expression and cinematic language are reasons enough to keep an eye on this director.
The Daughters of the Domino is currently planning a wider theatrical release. Information on upcoming screenings of the film can be found here.
For a debut film, McAnally shows a clear grasp of the genre while crafting a story that is entirely original and thoughtful.
Writing & podcasting, for the love of movies.
His Letterboxd Favorites: The Dark Knight, Halloween, Jaws & A Christmas Story.
