Whether you watch The Little Things on the big or small screen, Denzel Washington has a huge presence.

The Little Things, released this week in theaters and on HBO Max, is an R-rated detective mystery written and directed by John Lee Hancock, who also directed The Blind Side and Saving Mr. Banks. It stars Denzel Washington (The Equalizer 2) and Rami Malek (Bohemian Rhapsody) as two investigators in a serial killing case involving a suspicious individual portrayed by Jared Leto (Suicide Squad).     

The movie has great atmosphere, maintaining a dark tone throughout the story, always keeping the air of mystery present for the experience. There is a good amount of intensity and suspense built up by the direction and score.

The story follows both main leads as they investigate the case in their respective ways, as one is a more old fashioned detective and the other a modern one. Both have their own personal motivations for wanting to solve the case, outside of it being their job.      

With four Academy Awards between the three leads, it’s not surprising the acting is top-notch, with Washington, Malek and Leto each excelling in their roles.

Washington portrays a seasoned detective who has clearly been through much, yet his dedication remains and shows in his up close investigation methods. As a more strait-laced detective in the public eye, Malek acts as a good partner for Washington as an enjoyable chemistry forms between them.

Leto is the antagonist and has some good back and forths with each lead dialogue-wise, and Leto himself delivers a good performance as a creepy and mysterious suspect.    

This movie does have a few short-comings; it isn’t especially creative with its visuals, even though it does achieve a good atmosphere. I won’t spoil the ending, but it will most likely result in divisive opinions among viewers, depending on how they feel about the connection between journey and the destination.

Overall, this movie is a good time for mystery or crime drama fans as it provides an interesting investigation to follow along with great leads taking the helm.

Watch it now in theaters or on HBO Max.