Stylish and well done

Rating: 7/10 (1 May 2011)

There have been inevitable comparisons to Hitchcock's Rear Window, and there are those who call Disturbia a rip off of the Hitchcock classic. While I personally wouldn't go as far to say that, I can see some uncanny similarities. If I were to compare the two, I think Rear Window is a masterpiece, but I liked this very much and feel that it may perhaps appeal more to some.
I do think though Disturbia does have a slow start with not a lot standing out really. However when it gets going, it does get very suspenseful and the rest up to the exciting finale is an entertaining mix of suspense, thrills, mystery and comedy. The story may have its predictable twists and turns and the odd crack but overall it is entertaining and slow start aside well-structured and slickly paced.
Visually Disturbia is stylish, with some nice shots and lighting which add to the atmosphere and great sets and location shooting, the direction is taut and the dialogue is on the whole witty. The acting is fine, Shia LaBoeuf and Sara Roehmmer are likable in the lead roles and show a good chemistry. Carrie Ann-Moss is also good, though I would have liked to have seen more of her, but David Morse in a shy, quiet yet altogether sinister performance is the one who steals the show.
Overall, a stylish and well done film and worth the watch. 7/10 Bethany Cox