ClichÃ©s Can Still Be Spooky Fun

Rating: Null/10 (10 May 2003)

"Identity" not only plays on stereotypes, it considers them classic references -- the dark and stormy night setting at a run-down desert motel with a snarky manager, strangers with secrets gathering, and so on -- that let you in on the jokes and twists for an entertaining pretzel.
I hope the DVD will have footnotes for all the intentional movie references, from "Psycho,", to "Three Faces of Eve," "10 Little Indians," and even "Sunset Boulevard," etc.
I'm sure others guessed the ending, but I kept being distracted enough to not think that far ahead.
This could just have easily been a cable TV movie or PBS "Mystery" episode, but the "A" list cast, including John Cusack and Ray Liotta, classes the joint up. I assume Amanda Peet appreciated finally being able to keep her blouse on in a movie, even if she is playing a prostitute.
Good production design for that seedy motel and the music doesn't interfere.
This will make a nice spooky video rental when you're in the mood.