Netflix's "Secrets We Keep": Is The 100% Rotten Tomatoes Score Justified?

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Post on May 21, 2025

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Netflix's "Secrets We Keep": Is the 100% Rotten Tomatoes Score Justified?

Netflix's "Secrets We Keep," a psychological thriller starring Noomi Rapace and Joel Kinnaman, initially boasted a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. This near-unheard-of score sparked immediate debate: was the critical acclaim deserved, or did the film benefit from a smaller sample size and less widespread viewership? Let's delve into the film and explore whether the initial perfect score holds water.

A Compelling Premise, But Complex Execution

The movie follows Maja (Rapace), a woman grappling with the trauma of a past war crime. When she encounters Lewis (Kinnaman), a man who bears a striking resemblance to her tormentor, her carefully constructed life unravels. The premise alone is gripping – a powerful exploration of trauma, memory, and the complexities of seeking justice. The film expertly builds suspense, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as Maja's past and present collide. This element of suspense is arguably the film's strongest suit and a key component in its initial critical reception.

Strengths of "Secrets We Keep":

• Powerful Performances: Rapace delivers a raw and emotionally charged performance, effectively portraying the internal struggles and lingering trauma of her character. Kinnaman also provides a nuanced portrayal, adding layers to a seemingly straightforward character.
• Atmospheric Tension: The film masterfully uses its setting and cinematography to create a palpable sense of unease and suspense. The mood is consistently dark and unsettling, adding to the overall impact of the narrative.
• Exploration of Trauma: "Secrets We Keep" delves into the lasting impact of trauma on individuals, offering a nuanced and sensitive exploration of a difficult subject matter. This thematic depth resonated with critics.

However, the Perfect Score Remains Contentious:

While the acting and atmosphere are undeniable strengths, the film isn't without its flaws. Some critics argue that the pacing feels uneven at times, and certain plot points could have been developed more fully. The narrative's ambiguity, while initially intriguing, may leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied or even frustrated. Furthermore, the relatively small initial sample size on Rotten Tomatoes naturally contributed to the perfect score, and as more reviews came in, the rating understandably decreased.

The Verdict: A Good Film, But Not Perfect

The initial 100% Rotten Tomatoes score for "Secrets We Keep" was undoubtedly inflated. While the film boasts strong performances, a compelling premise, and a masterfully crafted atmosphere, its uneven pacing and ambiguous plot points prevent it from achieving true perfection. The critical acclaim is justified to a degree, reflecting its strengths, but the perfect score was unsustainable and likely a product of early, limited reviews. Ultimately, "Secrets We Keep" is a worthwhile watch for fans of psychological thrillers, but it's essential to approach it with realistic expectations, understanding its limitations alongside its merits. It's a film that sparks conversation and prompts reflection, even if it doesn't quite reach the heights initially suggested by its perfect score.

Keywords: Secrets We Keep, Netflix, Noomi Rapace, Joel Kinnaman, psychological thriller, Rotten Tomatoes, movie review, film review, streaming, suspense, trauma, critical acclaim, movie score, film analysis.