This twisting and complex supernatural thriller handles big issues of life and death. Jacob Singer (Tim Robbins, THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION) is a Viet Nam vet, who now works at the post office, despite having a doctorate. He is separated from his wife Sarah (Patricia Kalember, TV's THIRTYSOMETHING) and is living with sexually provocative Jezebel (Elizabeth Peña, LONE STAR). Or is he?
He keeps having visions of demons and is tormented by the ghost of his dead son Gabe (Macaulay Culkin, HOME ALONE). He finds comfort in his longtime chiropractor Louis (Danny Aiello, DO THE RIGHT THING). Then Jacob meets up with his fellow soldier Paul (Pruitt Taylor Vince, MUMFORD) and things seem to get more complex.
The story twists and turns and flips over itself and then back again, keeping the audience questioning what is going on. However, the film does give some clear clues early on to what it's all about. Jacob's journey is haunting and complex. Once you learn what it's all about you will be intrigued with what the film deals with.
However, some aspects of the story seem like they are tacked on to create a point outside of the main theme and just make the story more labyrinthine. However, the film is never boring and the performances are good. Director Adrian Lyne (LOLITA) brings a nice style to the film that adds to the film's uneasiness. This is a solid supernatural thriller that really has something to say.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
