Searching (2018) ***1/2

Searching (2018) ingeniously uses technology to present an engaging, tense and realistic mystery/thriller. It feels very much like a movie that Steven Soderbergh would make in this genre—one where the performances, direction, sound design, etc. are up to par with the gimmick (the entire film is presented from the point of view of smartphones, computer screens, captured footage, etc.) and where the gimmick (mostly) never feels "gimmicky". There is a twist that I only had an inkling of and I worry about how well the film will hold up on repeat viewings—once you know the twist and the resolution, will the tension remain? Will the film feel dated in 10 or 20 years? Either way, I'm very intrigued by what director Aneesh Chaganty will deliver for his next film.