Burn (2019) is a compelling dark comedy thriller that explores the unexpected human connections that can form in moments of crisis. The film centers on Melinda, a lonely and emotionally unstable gas station attendant who feels perpetually overshadowed by her more charismatic co-worker. Her monotonous night shift takes a dramatic turn when a desperate man, Billy, enters the station and holds it up at gunpoint. Rather than reacting with pure fear, Melinda sees in this chaotic situation a twisted opportunity for the human connection she craves, leading to a tense and unpredictable dynamic between captive and captor.

Directed by Mike Gan, Burn excels at building claustrophobic tension within the confines of the gas station. The film's strength lies in its character-driven narrative and the nuanced performances of its leads. Tilda Cobham-Hervey delivers a standout performance as Melinda, perfectly capturing her vulnerability, instability, and simmering desperation. Opposite her, Josh Hutcherson portrays Billy with a palpable sense of weary despair, making him more than just a generic criminal. Their strange, evolving relationship forms the dark heart of the movie.

Viewers should watch Burn for its sharp blend of genres, shifting deftly between tense thriller moments and darkly comedic observations about loneliness and societal neglect. It's a character study that asks uncomfortable questions about who we connect with and why, all wrapped in a tight, 88-minute package that doesn't overstay its welcome. The film's atmospheric nighttime setting and escalating stakes create a gripping experience that will keep you engaged until its fiery conclusion.