Thursday, March 17, 2016

The 'Not-So-Critical' Critic: 10 CLOVERFIELD LANE


The 'Not-So-Critical' Critic: 
on 10 CLOVERFIELD LANE (2016, 103 minutes, PG-13)

 
The Quick of It -
I have to admit my excitement level to see this one was on par with most of the superhero films releasing this year.  I can only attribute this to being a "Goodmanophile".  Don't get me wrong, the first CLOVERFIELD was a great monster flick and I would be happy with another full-fledged sequel.  But seeing Goodman do his 'thing' is just as thrilling.


We have all heard that this was a rushed connection to the original when the project was completed, and rightly so.  You will understand once you see the movie, and you must put this on your 'must see' list.  Young director Dan Trachtenberg will teach you the meaning of build-up.  He leaves you on the edge of your seat guessing the whole time, waiting for the next piece of the puzzle.  Funny enough, there is a puzzle in the film that is missing a few pieces.  Clever play?  I think so.


The acting is great even for such a small cast in a confined space, with what at first seems as limited conflict that could be easily resolved.  Like I said, John Goodman crushes this role.  He is quite believable when spinning crazy theories and in the conviction held in his voice with all the choices he has made up to this point.  Mary Elizabeth Winstead quickly endears you to her plight and demonstrates her indomitable will to live.  John Gallagher Jr. is the bridge and filler that cements the story and makes the plot whole.  The writing is that tight, folks.

The trailer make the promise and the film keeps it.  You will not be disappointed in the final minutes.  In fact, you will be asking for more.   

Grade: B+

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