Coulda Been a Blockbuster

Rating: 7/10 (9 January 2005)

The idea of this film was a great one...of altering ones past and seeing the repercussions of such actions if one could...and this film has a few parts in it that will make you believe that this could of been a "great" film, but it turns out to be just a so-so film. And to be honest, I keep wondering why.
First I thought it might be the star, Ashton Kutcher. I could see glimpses of good acting, and many chances missed for great acting. It might not be Ashton alone -- maybe it could be that he didn't posses the maturity to play the role, or he was directed to portray maturity in parts that needed it. Ashton is one of those actors that in about 10 years, will have a few roles where everyone will be shaking their heads and saying, "Gee, I didn't know he was that great of an actor". I can see that he will be, and maybe this is one of those films that could have waited until then.
But you cannot overlook Amy Smart. She is what absolutely makes this film watchable. Her performances are outstanding. But if I take my "10 year" rule for Ashton and away from Amy -- she would have never gotten this role and we would have missed out on seeing a good actress work. So in lies the dilemma.
"The Butterfly Effect" has likable performances in which many actors had a chance to 'shine' -- but at one point or another don't quite go all the way with it. Why? Is it the script? The direction? The Editing? The film financing? The ratings board? A combination? WHAT!?!?!
Honestly, I see this film ripe for a remake in the year 2025 and everyone will love it beyond belief while many of us will remark how THIS version had its moments.