Unknown Origins (2020)

Unknown Origins is a sly, propulsive Madrid-set thriller that treats comic-book mythology like a secret code—turning caped “first appearances” into a clever, darkly playful murder mystery without ever losing its human stakes. The joy is in the odd-couple chemistry: a cop who can’t stand comics, a weary veteran near retirement, and a lovable shop-owner nerd who suddenly becomes the key to saving lives, all bouncing off each other with wit and real momentum. Director David Galán Galindo keeps the tone energized and mischievous, balancing grisly set pieces with pop-culture sparkle and a gallery of eccentric characters that make the investigation feel like a twisted scavenger hunt. It’s not for the squeamish or anyone allergic to genre mash-ups, but if you like your thrillers smart, fast, and a little wicked, this one lands like a punchline with a bruise behind it.

Unknown Origins wants to mash up a grisly serial-killer thriller with affectionate comic-book fandom, and on paper that’s a fun, pulpy hook. The problem is the film can’t quite decide if it’s being clever, scary, or cheekily self-aware, so the tonal swerves often blunt the tension instead of building it. A lot of the “mystery” beats feel signposted early, and the characters—especially the brooding cop vs. nerdy expert dynamic—play more like familiar sketches than people you’ll truly worry about. Still, if you’re into Spanish genre movies, comic references, and don’t mind moderate gore in exchange for a few entertaining set pieces, it can be a decent one-night watch; if you want a tight whodunit or a consistently dark thriller, you’ll likely leave underwhelmed.