Hawn, in an attempt to shed her giggling, airheaded screen persona, chose to make this rather dark thriller. In it, she plays a woman who meets a charming man (Heard) by chance and is soon married to him and enjoying a life of bliss and parenthood (to adorable imp Peldon) while dealing in ancient treasures and jewelry. One day, he finds himself in danger of incrimination for a forgery and from there, the plot takes off in hyper-unreal twists and shocks. Hawn, despite some viewers' carping that they couldn't accept her in this type of role, is excellent. She gives a fully committed, intriguing performance. Heard is also extremely effective in his part. They are both damaged by a script that is just too difficult to fully buy and riddled with plot holes. That said, the film is still quite entertaining as an experiment in audience manipulation. More than once, spine-chilling moments of surprise and terror jolt the viewer, no matter how many times they are viewed. The film is geared for audience reaction, but, unfortunately, the logic of the plot doesn't hold up. It hangs together pretty well for the longest time, then gets way out of hand and is all too typical of the thriller films of this era. There also seems to be evidence of cuts (note the billing, but virtual absence of Straight and Robertson as Hawn's parents and the sudden disappearance of underused Bartlett from the story, though she is fourth billed.) On the plus side is a sumptuous and rich-looking production design and a haunting, exceptional music score from Thomas Newman. Newman uses the lower notes that his father found so useful, but creates a modern, unique sound. Fans who can let go of Goldie's PREVIOUS image should find enjoyment in the film along with those who just like to get jolted. Fans of water-tight, intelligent mysteries are in for a let-down. Sadly, Hawn hasn't really attempted to break the mold again since this, joining people like Bill Murray ("The Razor's Edge") who have had immense trouble breaking free of preconceived notions about their area of talent.
Review of Deceived
