“Locked” follows Eddie, who steps into a deadly trap set by a self-proclaimed vigilante after breaking into a luxury SUV.

Bill Skarsgård has quietly become a top working actor, being featured in films like “It,” “Barbarian,” “John Wick: Chapter 4,” “Boy Kills World” and “Nosferatu.” While you can debate the quality of the movies that he is in, Skarsgård’s range is undeniable. That’s no different in “Locked.”

He continues his streak of versatile performances, carrying plenty of weight on his shoulders here. With the majority of the movie consisting of close-ups in tight corridors, his acting is on full display. Skarsgård is able to sell all of the different layers to his character through emotional, desperate dialogue. Alongside Skarsgård is Anthony Hopkins. His voice is also heavily relied on. It works (for the most part) because it isn’t what you’d expect from a typical antagonist.

While the two leads make “Locked” a lot of fun, there is only so much that you can do with this story. The film suffers because of this, especially in the middle act. It goes through many highs and lows, but the middle portion begins to feel dragged out.

“Locked” finds success in its cinematography and editing. The film is able to navigate such a tight space in a number of creative ways. This heightens the claustrophobic nature, bringing in more tension. It always manages to stay engaging as well, whether that is through the sound design or camerawork. If the dialogue or music is minimal, then the camera is circling or shifting to create a dizzying effect. When the camera is still, there is an array of audio to maintain that same energy.

“Locked” succeeds more than it doesn’t. While it is certainly limited by its central premise, the film is able to make the most of it with exceptional acting, creative camerawork and a tight script.

Rating: 3 out of 5