A Scientist at the Movies Reviews by Greg Paris

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Title: Identity

Date Viewed: 4/26/03

Details:

John Cusack

Ray Liotta

Amanda Peet

Rebecca De Mornay

John C. McGinley

Jake Busey

Director: James Mangold

Score: +

The Review: Identity deserves a 'plus,' not necessarily as it moves forward, but definitely when it reaches the twist-point, when you finally understand what is going on. From that point forward -- and backward, as you rearrange your cognitive field -- it's a 'plus.'

When Identity starts out, it has all the hallmarks of a grade-B thriller -- a group of random people thrown together at a sleazy back-road motel, in the pouring rain with lightning and thunderstorms as ominous background -- then accidents and not-quite-accidents begin to happen. There's a convicted murderer in transit, some spooky Indian burial grounds, etc etc. And then the random factor evaporates, and connections arise. There are but few clues that actually put you on the right path: your expectations are carefully managed and then turned inside out. A curious premise, an interesting story (once you figure out what's happening), and a fascinating portrayal of an interesting (state of) mind.

But I did wonder occasionally how this movie would have been re-structured were it to have been directed by M. Night Shyamalan. Good though, albeit not one I can imagine wanting to own or re-watch.

(26-Apr-03)

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