Tuesday, October 7, 2008

DECEPTION

DECEPTION DECIEVES US THAT IT IS A CLEVER FILM
Sometimes, after a movie I've just seen I'll linger to watch the credits. As I lingered over Deception, I noticed that Hugh Jackman was one of the producers and then it made sense; that's why this movie sucked. Vanity films are so not flattering and usually terrible. This one is no exception. Poor pimply faced Johnathan (Ewen McGregor) is an ordinary, nerdy accountant (read: stereotypical). Once he meets Lothario/playboy Wyatt Bose (Hugh Jackman) his world turns upside down. I was ready with this line, 'as the events twist like a rubber band, Johnathan gets in deeper and the plot twists and snaps back hard in his face.' Except the ending was left limp as an overused rubber band. The plot is repetitive and done better in other films (Mr. Ripley). The acting is okay, not a stretch for anyone. Michelle Williams (as Johnathan's true love) gives a sensual performance that I have not seen from her previously. It was a pretty film however it was not the passion-filled romp that it has been marketed as. Sure, there is sex and a few breast shots, but that's it and it's boring. It wasn't a horrible film, except the last 1/4 of the film needed to be faster and more clever. I was waiting for a twist or shock or surprise. It ended on a limp note for a 'provocative' film. "Lisbeth Wheelehan"

NOT a pick: Without a sharp and original script this movie is purely icing.