A Scientist at the Movies Reviews by Greg Paris

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Title: The Gift

Date of original theatrical release: 2000

Details:

Cate Blanchett (Annabelle 'Annie' Wilson)

Giovanni Ribisi

Keanu Reeves

Katie Holmes

Greg Kinnear

Hilary Swank

Michael Jeter

J.K. Simmons

Director: Sam Raimi (and a cameo customer of Annie's)

Screenplay: Billy Bob Thornton & Tom Epperson

Score: 1/2

The Review: Quiet, paranormal thriller.

In a small Southern town, a murder occurs. But confirming that it is indeed murder, and providing evidence leading to a trial, is the town's psychic reader Annie (Blanchett). What constitutes evidence, is explored perhaps a bit superficially. But this is also a thriller, so there are a few plot twists that any experienced mystery reader should be able to see on the horizon.

One of the more curious, albeit understated, themes is its casual acceptance of the paranormal, and how unobtrusively and "normally" it integrates into the life of this small backwater community. Yes, there are believers and non-believers, some virulent and others not, but in most aspects -- quiet. The point of view throughout is Annie's, so there is no doubt to the viewing audience what she perceives. If this quiet acceptance bothers you, then this movie is not for you.

Broad ensemble support (as you can see from the selected cast list above): over-the-top villain (Reeves), laconic disbelieving sheriff (Simmons), tortured car repairman (Ribisi), among others.

(24-Mar-07)

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