By Melissa Garza
This is one of those films that I wanted to see the moment it came out but never got around to it. I thought the premise looked cool and that the cast would be a perfect fit. It appeared to be a tense thriller with twists and turns that would keep the viewer guessing. That meant, it would most likely be right up my alley.
Though, the current mainstream often fails when it comes to straight-up horror films, they are much more successful when it comes to thrillers. In the past few years, there have been some really good entries into the genre. Vacancy (2007), Funny Games (2007), and Strangers (2008) are just a few examples of the best suspense-filled movies that Hollywood had to offer. With that in mind, I had very high hopes for this production.
The movie opens with newlyweds Cliff (Steve Zahn) and Cydney (Milla Jovovich) who are enjoying their honeymoon in Hawaii. They encounter Kale (Chris Hemsworth) and Chloe (Marley Shelton), a rough trashy couple who ask for a ride. Though reluctant, they agree to help out, but Kale offended by Cliff’s initial attitude declines and orders Chloe out of the car as well.
Later, they meet Nick (Timothy Olyphant) who is on a romantic vacation with his girlfriend Gina (Kiele Sanchez). The four quickly become friends. Soon, they hear that the police are looking for a murderous duo. A man and a woman killed a few tourists on a nearby island and now they are believed to be in the same location as the three couples who are now all suspect.
A Perfect Getaway did not disappoint. It is an entertaining thrill ride that has excellent pace, great energy, a wonderful setting and heart-stopping sequences that captivate. Though the conclusion is predictable, the way in which it plays out is definitely worth the watch. The characters are interesting and the dialogue is well-written.
It goes without saying that the acting is stellar. Steve Zahn, though in many movies, remains underrated. He has the same unique quality that Ed Norton does where he can successfully portray any type of character. Whether comedy relief in movies like Saving Silverman (2001) or Happy Texas (1999), or a sympathetic loser in Riding in Cars with Boys (2001), he always delivers. He can portray the passive geek or the loudmouthed tough guy, never failing to make every word spoke believable. He also has an undeniable charm. His charisma definitely keeps the viewer captivated.
Likewise, Timothy Olyphant also is a fantastic asset. I liked him ever since I saw him in Go (1999). He has obvious sex appeal but he also has a great deal of talent. He sells Nick as an overzealous guy who is out to have fun and fears very little.
Milla Jovovich was able to display her wonderful range as an actress. Those accustomed to seeing her in the Resident Evil roles will be surprised to see how easily she transitioned into a meek and quiet character.
Overall, the film was great. I highly recommend it. It definitely has a certain charm to it, but more than that it’s just a very solid movie that delivers in every way.
Scared Stiff Rating: 8/10
