Hit or Miss Flick, but mostly a miss.

Rating: 3/10 (4 August 2014)

I will start off by stating that I quite like Ethan Hawke, give or take a couple flicks. The only reason for watching this movie was the premise, it seemed like it could go in a few different directions. Not knowing too much about what happens before watching it, I didn't have the chance to avoid it. The premise seemed like it could accommodate a variety of twists and engaging elements. I thought the idea of legalizing fun, while it wasn't the most logical plot, seemed like it could be a really fun movie. Given this wouldn't happen, I wouldn't let this logic get in the way of my judgement. I just wanted to be entertained, not shown a masterpiece by any means. However it fell short, terrible how they could ruin something with potential.
The acting wasn't terrible, but was not great either, I won't delve into that.
However, the thriller aspect of the movie was not enticing. The film featured long periods of 'attempted suspense', but came off quite cheesy at times. The last two thirds of the movie were intentionally, and brazenly dark, in the literal sense. I could understand the opportunity for some thrills in this, but it did not work out. This drew the movie out for a while, and nearly put me to sleep hoping for some a genuine adrenaline rush, but it was too cheap. The movie is highly polished, incredibly long in its feel, and stands out as just another grim Hollywood attempt for a stab at your money.
No substance, I wasn't expecting any regardless, but not entertaining in the slightest. Given the exception at the beginning building the story line. The ending had a twist, but a pretty weak and unimaginative one, so have fun with that thought.
Overall, I really wanted to like this movie, but am sadly let down. It could be a hit or miss, but I would avoid this movie at all costs, don't waste your time around trashy and cheaply written movies.