Bruce Willis Gasoline Alley movie leaving Hulu soon has sparked debate among fans and critics alike, as this once-promising thriller prepares to exit the streaming service in the US. As its days on Hulu come to an end, many are questioning whether this controversial film is worth watching despite its harsh reception.
Background and Setting of Gasoline Alley
Bruce Willis, famously known for his roles in action and crime dramas, took on the character of Detective Freeman in Gasoline Alley, which released in 2022. Set against the gritty backdrop of present-day Los Angeles, the film also stars Luke Wilson as Detective Vargas and Devon Sawa in the lead as Jimmy Jayne, a tattoo artist and former convict.
The plot revolves around Jayne being wrongfully suspected in a Hollywood star’s murder after his lighter is discovered at the crime scene. Determined to clear his name, he dives into his own investigation while crossing paths with Detectives Freeman and Vargas. The investigation soon uncovers a disturbing human trafficking operation, culminating in a violent confrontation at a warehouse.
Despite an exciting premise and an ensemble cast, the movie’s execution disappointed many. Bruce Willis’s role as Detective Freeman is notably limited, with less than 15 minutes of screen time, leaving audiences wanting more of the classic Willis performance. Luke Wilson, on the other hand, provides some levity in his portrayal of a relaxed cop, while Devon Sawa’s focused portrayal of Jimmy Jayne has drawn most of the positive attention from reviewers.
Critical and Audience Response
Upon release, Gasoline Alley faced an onslaught of negative reviews from critics. Earning a dismal 23% on the Rotten Tomatoes Tomatometer, it shocked many given the talent involved. Critics did not hold back in their assessments, citing weak dialogue and uninspired storytelling as major flaws. One critic described the film as,
a clumsy and fatally blind screenplay
—Critic, Rotten Tomatoes.
However, the movie’s Popcornmeter score sits at a surprising 85%, highlighting a sharp division between critical and general audience reactions. IMDb users landed in the middle with a 5/10 rating, reflecting a polarized response. Many fans felt let down by Willis’s minor role, suggesting his presence on the poster was primarily for marketing. Numerous viewers, particularly on Reddit, labeled the movie as more of a straight-to-video filler than a compelling feature.
Who Might Enjoy Gasoline Alley?
For devoted fans of Devon Sawa, Gasoline Alley serves as an opportunity to see him give a standout performance. Luke Wilson admirers may also find enjoyment in his easygoing portrayal of Detective Vargas amid the film’s otherwise tense atmosphere. Curiosity might also lure viewers interested in exploring the significant gap between critic and audience opinions on the same work.
With a runtime of about 100 minutes, the film is regarded by some as forgettable, yet it offers one last chance to catch a recent Bruce Willis project before it leaves Hulu. The decision for Willis to participate in this film, especially so late in his career, remains a mystery for fans used to his iconic roles. Though Gasoline Alley failed to reach blockbuster status, it delivers a troubled, gritty narrative that could intrigue those drawn to underdog crime thrillers or seeking to make their own judgment before it disappears from the platform.
Gasoline Alley will remain available for streaming on Hulu in the United States until its removal.
