journal features

movie review - The Cell

the journal of Michael Werneburg

twenty-seven years and one million words

Sydney, 2001.01.15

This is a surprisingly well-filmed flick with a decent plot, good acting, and an interesting premise. It's about a researcher (Lopez) who is working on a new, high-tech means of communicating with people who are unable to connect to the outside world. The plot revolves around her ability to venture into the mind of a near-comatose psychotic who - prior to the accident that leaves him unable to connect to the outside world - has kidnapped a woman and left her in a cell, somewhere. She's contracted by an FBI agent (Vaughn, in a slightly under-written role) to determine the whereabouts of the girl.

She does this, but eventually awakens enough of the kidnapper's damaged psyche to get into trouble. There are some weak points (especially the denouement), but overall, this is worth watching.

As a final note; the cinematography and effects are quite intriguing, so try to see it on the big screen.

Recommended.

rand()m quote

The man who lies to himself and listens to his own lie comes to such a pass that he cannot distinguish the truth within him, or around him, and so loses all respect for himself and for others. And having no respect he ceases to love, and in order to occupy and distract himself without love he gives way to passions and coarse pleasures, and sinks to bestiality in his vices, all from continual lying to other men and to himself.

—Fyodor Dostoevsky, The Brothers Karamazov