Closed Circuit Review
RYAN: This is a suspense-driven drama starring Eric Bana and Rebecca Hall as ex-lovers who are working both with and against each other on a high-profile terrorism case in London.
CAROLINE: It looks like a good mystery and we like the cast. How did it turn out?
RYAN: Eh… it’s ok but not as riveting as it sets out to be. It’s rather tepid.
CAROLINE: That’s too bad. Why? Eric is so hot.
RYAN: He is indeed but he gives a monotonous performance in this film. I really like him as an actor but this role could have been anyone. He does have great chemistry with Rebecca, though. They’re exes and you sort of root for them to make out because of the way the story is set up.
RYAN: Not hardly. It’s a serious film leading up to this court case that takes forever to get there and then when you do, the payoff isn’t all that. There are loads of details right at the top of the movie and you have to pay super-close attention but even then, it’s still confusing.
CAROLINE: I hate that. I’m sure I’d have been totally lost. So does the title make sense? Is there a lot of surveillance going on?
RYAN: There’s a bit but that’s not the whole crux of the case. It’s a strange title. But when there is surveillance, it does give you a sense of nervousness.
CAROLINE: Who else is in it?
RYAN: Randomly, Julia Stiles is there – she plays an American journalist. Jim Broadbent is also there and looks the best you’ve ever seen him in a movie; almost sexy. Ciaran Hinds is always good and he’s in it too.
CAROLINE: He’s in, like, everything.
RYAN: Rebecca is actually really good in this. It’s not an important movie this year but she is very strong. This shows some decent range for her and she has a few terrific moments.
CAROLINE: I have always liked her.
RYAN: We don’t do spoilers but I will say that the aftertaste from this movie leaves you feeling a bit frustrated. It’s a decent British political thriller but not a one you have to run out to see.
