A dark and moving story that Makes you reflex...

Rating: 9/10 (31 May 2009)

I'm ashamed to admit that when this movie came out I rejected it big time because it looked like "the MTV movie of the year". You know, I saw Ashton Kutcher on the trailer so I didn't expect something really good.
Bad mistake. Last night I watched it for the first time and I'm glad to say that it moved me on a different manner than some other movies. I mean, the movie deals with the opportunity of changing the past but with rather disgusting consequences. I mean, every single change in the universe has a consequence.
The main plot deals with the main character's (Evan) painful childhood and how some events changed it negatively. First of all, his childhood sweetheart has a miserable life, she was sexually abused by her father, her brother was a major bully and now she's a dumb miserable waitress.
Evan has the ability to read his old diary notes in order to evoke and live again the past but now with the opportunity to change it in order to modify a difficult situation. The problem is that he doesn't knows what horrible consequences it will bring like killing people, sickness, a disturbing social life, autism, being seriously injured, etc.
Every change in Evan's parallel universes deserves a tremendous special effect at some points, but to be honest, what's more thrilling about this movie is the chance to way it touches some serious issues about life in general. This is a movie that will make you feel powerful, sad, happy, but most important REFLEXIVE.
You can't just play God and pretend it never happened.
The success of the movie is also because it works as a supernatural thriller with elements of Horror such as gore. The tension surrounding many scenes is always present and in heavy shape. The violence level is high but it's extremely justified and makes the movie reach a higher level.
The Direction is also perfect because it's dark and sophisticated at the same time. The f/x were only a decent addition but not very necessary when the plot is that complex and interesting.
The acting is top notch specially by Ashton Kutcher who demonstrates he's a solid actor. Amy Smart is just plain hot and delivers a great performance as a girl who confronts different and difficult fates. Tommy as a kid is extremely creepy and mean! I'm glad I never met a boy like him.
Watch "The Butterfly Effect" and understand the Theory of Chaos. It's displayed in such an excellent manner.