8.5/10

Rating: 8/10 (13 November 2014)

This is definitely some of the best pure filmaking I've seen all year and one of the most inventive thrillers of the 2000s. It is a great companion piece to movies such as "One Hour Photo".
There's lots to talk about. Cinematography is excellent, editing and pace flawless, very solid direction and a good supporting performance by Russo. But what this is all about is the one man show by Jake Gyllenhaal. I have always been a fan of him, I actually was a fan of this talent even before it was cool to be his fan. This performance is the proof of every good word I have ever spoke about this man. It is brilliant acting from the very little details inserted in the performance to the amazing dialogue delivery and mesmerizing screen presence, don't be surprised to see Gyllenhaal nominated for an Oscar this year, yet I don't see him winning. He his certainly helped by an amazing script that other than offering a triumphant portrayal of such a despicable character, offers an inside view in some of the mechanics of news reporting that I found fascinating. There are some very tense moments too where I was totally conflicted in were my side should stand and I loved this so much. The movie offers a window from which the viewer can take away what he or she decides.
Despite this offering, I think the movie falls short in doing what could have been the ultimate success. Yes you do get interesting "bipolar" situations, but that's were the movie stops. When I said the movie is a one man show I certainly meant it in a good way, but there's a shade of bad too. This film doesn't leave space for some higher statement or reflection. It's all about Lou and not enough about the all the rest and even though I was riveted throughout I didn't really take away as much as I wanted.
Anyways, if you haven't seen this movie go see it as soon as you can! It is a great ride and a fascinating look at an aspect of our society.