I saw this movie despite it's bad rating, and I must say that it wasn't at all bad. Good production values, great soundtrack and a somewhat believable story. I think a lot of people would've found it better had they not expected a horror movie. Sure there's blood and guts in it, but it's more of an adventure-movie in the sense that the good-guys, bad-guys ratio evens things up. What it does lack however is a satisfying ending and a subplot that would given an added depth to the characters. I still think it deserves a 5 rating as it's different than most movies, it doesn't follow the standard 'stupid-people walking straight into doom' recipe. It's beautifully shot at locations that I'd love to see in real life. It did get a notch or two higher for the effort. If the last 15 minutes of it had been a bit more scary and gruesome I'd definitely would've given it a 6 or a 7. If you are after a Texas Chainsaw-kind of deal you are most likely looking in the wrong direction, but if you are not, then this might tickle the fright in you just enough for it to be worth renting.
Reviews
3 Reviews
Scoop
(2006)
A metaphysical scoop gets in the hands of amateurs.
11 January 2007
This film seems to bring most of the traits we are familiar with Woody Allen. That in itself is usually enough for most people to either leave it alone or hurry to witness Mr. Allens next anxiety driven dialog.
Being a recognized genius of modern film I can't help but to feel this was one of his less passionate works, as it doesn't really seem to lift off at any point. Whether it is lack of romance in the on screen couple or the fairly transparent story that puts you off, either way it sinks a few notches in my opinion.
The dialog does hold it's own and there's even a moment when Scarlett Johansson seems infected Woody's anxiety-acting. But all in all, a bit of a disappointment. Luckily I find Miss Johansson radiant enough to keep myself until the end.
As a final word to Mr. Allen I'd like to quote your movie like this: 'I don't know what you've smoked, but don't try bring it through customs'
Being a recognized genius of modern film I can't help but to feel this was one of his less passionate works, as it doesn't really seem to lift off at any point. Whether it is lack of romance in the on screen couple or the fairly transparent story that puts you off, either way it sinks a few notches in my opinion.
The dialog does hold it's own and there's even a moment when Scarlett Johansson seems infected Woody's anxiety-acting. But all in all, a bit of a disappointment. Luckily I find Miss Johansson radiant enough to keep myself until the end.
As a final word to Mr. Allen I'd like to quote your movie like this: 'I don't know what you've smoked, but don't try bring it through customs'
The Night Listener
(2006)
A curious mystery that leaves you puzzled at a slow beat.
10 January 2007
With a well working script and a comfortable cast this movie seems to be a tad on the slow side, but armed with a cup of coffee I'd recommend you sit through this relationship drama with it's mystery-coated comments on the weaknesses of the human mind.
The whole cast does a good job of finding their characters making them believable and colorful enough to tune in on an emotional level.
Defining it as a thriller is however a bit of a stretch and could fool you into thinking it actually has an ending and that just might make you disappointed.
It's too good for TV, but needs a subplot and a few more twists and turns at a faster rate for the silver screen.
The whole cast does a good job of finding their characters making them believable and colorful enough to tune in on an emotional level.
Defining it as a thriller is however a bit of a stretch and could fool you into thinking it actually has an ending and that just might make you disappointed.
It's too good for TV, but needs a subplot and a few more twists and turns at a faster rate for the silver screen.
Tell Your Friends