good but over-rated

Rating: 6/10 (22 October 2005)

I can't believe this movie is considered to be in the same league as (or better than) The Ring or Final Destination according to the ratings here on IMDb. It shouldn't even be in the same class. When I read that this was originally going straight to video, somehow I wasn't surprised. I agree with the filmmakers in releasing it to theaters because it is a little better than the usual straight-to-video flicks, but just a little better.
The story is interesting and the puzzles are clever. But somehow this film is missing something. Maybe it's the casting. Personally, I'm not a big fan of Cary Elwes or Danny Glover, and after seeing this film, Leigh Whannell either. I don't find Cary Elwes interesting to watch. He just seems bland. Danny Glover is again playing the role that made him famous, although without his partner, Sgt. Riggs. Because I still identify him with that role, his presence just lightened the mood up too much in this film. Leigh is a little irritating, but that could be due to his character and the script. But somehow I doubt that. The casting director should've spent more time looking for more interesting actors to watch.
Then there are the scenes that are too unbelievable and Hollywood-sy that they lessen the suspense even more. I would've like to have seen the story more dark and tragic.
All in all, this film is above average but falls short of being great.