Provocative, Gritty and Clever Storyline

Rating: 9/10 (17 June 2007)

I over-looked this film many times before, knowing that it was another attempt from Jim Carrey to cross-over from 'rubber face' comedy acting in pursuit of a more 'serious' role. However, I wish I'd seen it earlier. For me, Jim Carrey's attempts have finally paid off - as he carried the story line superbly well, especially as you watch his character delve deeper and deeper into this creepy, psychological paranoia.
To some, the plots twists and turns maybe foreseeable, but I feel it is Jim Carrey's (Walter Sparrow) and supporting actor Virginia Madsen's, believable and strength of acting that pushes through these criticisms and takes the viewer on a surprisingly well balanced and clever storyline. As Walter Sparrow becomes obsessed and engulfed within the thick of the story, such disturbing paranoia is well portrayed and reminds me of Joel Schumachers' other films, i.e. 8MM and Phone Booth. Where the characters lives are twisted, ruined and unrecognisable.
The grittiness and over-exposed (lighting effects) used, when the book is read by Walter Sparrow adds another element to the film, you get a true feel for the secondary characters and reminds me of old-fashioned detective films in black'n'white, those of you who have played Max Payne will know exactly the mood that this bleak, dark and disturbing type of cinematography can achieve.
Above all, a well written, well balanced, thought provoking film, with the perfect amount of pace and suspense to keep you intrigued till the end credits - don't get to obsessed though, as it will get you thinking about the numbers in your birth-date?