Cusack made this film

Rating: 8/10 (5 October 2008)

Upon watching the film "1408" i realised that what separated this film from the average horror fare was a number of reasons. I won't go into the plot because there would be far better descriptions elsewhere than what i can provide.
The most important reason was the exceedingly excellent performance of John Cusack. He carried this film solely and completed what was a dark, suspenseful and claustrophobic ride. The film often relied on the mood and atmosphere, rather than jump-out scares (despite the film containing a couple).
Samuel l. Jackson was also put to good use. His shady and confident persona set the tone of what was to come before Cusack even entered the room. If you are to watch this, i would strongly suggest you watch the theatrical ending rather than the lesser, and rather disappointing alternate ending. I won't go into details as to not reveal what happens, but it is a rather fitting end to a surprisingly good movie.
Whilst the film is not without it's flaws, the combination of Cusack and the film's growing tension made me walk out of the cinema with the feeling that I got my money's worth.