(Image credit: David Lee / Netflix)

Netflix is clearly gearing up for the colder months ahead with the release of its new original movie, “The Whisper Man.” When I first watched the trailer for this crime thriller, I immediately got major “Silence of the Lambs” vibes, which I’d say is a huge compliment. As a big fan of that classic, it’s safe to say my interest was instantly piqued. Directed by James Ashcroft, “The Whisper Man” is a dark ’90s throwback thriller steeped in somber suburban paranoia, like “Zodiac” or “Seven” filtered through the lens of a quiet small town. Having seen this film already, I’m actually a little surprised.Tom's Guide Verdict: 'The Whisper Man'Rating: 3.5/5 starsVerdict: “The Whisper Man” is a solid, atmospheric thriller that benefits from its ’90s-inspired style and a strong performance from Adam Scott. However, its underwhelming second half and lack of originality ultimately prevent it from becoming the impactful Netflix thriller it could have been.Where to watch: "The Whisper Man" is streaming on Netflix“The Whisper Man” centers around widowed crime writer Tom Kennedy (Adam Scott), whose young son is kidnapped, forcing him to turn to his estranged father, retired detective Peter Willis (Robert De Niro), for help. The disappearance soon appears to be connected to a decades-old case involving a convicted serial killer known as the Whisper Man, whom Peter helped put behind bars. As Detective Amanda Beck (Michelle Monaghan) investigates the boy’s disappearance, Tom and Peter are forced to confront the possibility that the past may be connected to the present.I don’t always have the highest expectations when it comes to Netflix’s original movies. Not only is the consistency in quality hit or miss, but many of its movies can also feel frustratingly similar. “The Whisper Man” is by no means going to change that or rank among the best films Netflix has ever made, but this crime thriller has plenty going for it, particularly its ’90s nostalgia and strong cast. It also injects the story with enough menace to keep things interesting, although I do have a few thoughts that stop it from being the best Netflix original of the year.‘The Whisper Man’ is a chilling throwback thriller