If the pay-offaims for the gut and misses, the journey to that point provides a searing microcosm of a corrupt and degrading system.

With "7 Prisoners," Moratto proves himself as a director of many talents.

The rather on-the-nose storytelling grows increasingly complex and interesting the further that the protagonist ventures into morally ambiguous territory.

7 Prisoners is perfectly paced, perfectly casted, and perfectly counter to any expectations you might have for the story beforehand.