A pleasant surprise

Rating: 10/10 (4 August 2002)

Granted the mixed reviews, I wasn't sure what to expect from this film--but upon seeing it, I will say that every negative review was blown out of the water.
However, I am of the opinion that the simultaneous gasps (and one scream, might I add) coming from around the theatre was worth the price of admission in and of itself.
With a suspenseful score appropriate for any thriller, I was hooked by the time the opening credits were finished--and it didn't end there. I was given no time whatsoever between the fade of the last words and the first striking image before the horror began.
I was extremely impressed with all of the performances, but particularly with the emotional range of Rory Culkin (Morgan) and Abagail Breslin (Bo), and also by the comic timing of Joaquin Phoenix (Merrill)--something new for him, as he rarely gets a chance to flex his comedic muscles in the other films he has done. It is rare to see such talent all in one movie--and Mel Gibson (Graham) is stellar, as always, with his emotional portrayal of the reverend who has lost his faith.
The overall humor of the movie, in fact, is absolutely sparkling, with witty one-liners and visual gags that will have you laughing for hours afterward. (And may I say, I think I'll make my own tinfoil hat.)
My opinion? This film is a force to be reckoned with. Impressive soundtrack, impressive camera shots, impressive acting, and pretty impressive storyline. I've not been scared so badly in a long while--10/10.