Directed by Bruce A Evans
Murderers and serial killers are popular subjects for movies and television dramas, and it seems that we can’t get enough voyeuristic titillation of these depraved miscreants and their evil activities. The latest film from Bruce A Evans (Kuffs) successfully throws the audience into a position of sympathising with a cold-blooded killer.
Earl Brooks (Kevin Costner) is a wealthy philanthropist and loving husband and father. He is also a member of Addicts Anonymous and recites their mantra as he drives home after collecting an award for his services to society. The addiction that the seemingly mild-mannered Brooks fights to overcome is personified by Marshall (William Hurt) who sits in the shadow of the back seat of the car. Unseen by Brooks’ wife (CSI’s Marg Helenberger), Marshal urges Brooks to hunt down new prey.
Complications arise when the meticulous Brooks is caught by an amateur photographer and voyeur who goes by the name of Mr Smith (Dane Cook). The sleazy Mr Smith blackmails Brooks into letting him accompany him on his next murder spree. While the charismatic killer toys with the young photographer, the director toys with the audience’s minds. Detective Tracy Atwood (Demi Moore) looks good, but she is just a pawn in the master’s chess game. This thriller has great plot twists, even though the ending screams ‘sequel’, and is sure to raise many debates.
