An Imaginative Mystery Film

Rating: 7/10 (2 December 2012)

This is an imaginative mystery film. Set during a storm, 10 different characters take refuge in a motel in the middle of nowhere. One by one they become victims of a psychotic killer whose identity is not disclosed until the very end. Because it keeps the audience guessing it manages to keep up the suspense and utilizes the dark, stormy environment to achieve an exciting climax. Good performances are accomplished by John Cusack ("Ed"), Ray Liotta ("Rhodes") and Amanda Peet ("Paris"). But I think the best acting was done by John Hawkes as the motel desk clerk, "Larry". And while it has no major faults, I would have preferred to see more of Rebecca De Mornay who played the self-centered actress named "Caroline Suzanne". But that's just my personal preference and it doesn't impair the movie to any real degree. In short, this is a very nice film that retains interest from start to finish. Highly recommended for those who enjoy a movie of this genre.