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Thursday, June 9, 2011

[7.00/10] Unknown (2011)


Unknown (2011)

Brief review: After his underrated gem, "Orphan", Spanish director Jaume Collet-Serra brings us his latest thriller, aptly titled "Unknown". Set in Germany, it tells the story of Dr. Martin Harris, who awakens from a coma, only to discover that someone has taken on his identity, and now he sets out to prove who he is, with the help pf a young woman. As tense, as it's constantly gripping, "Unknown" offers plenty of thrills, twists and turns along the way, and it keeps you guessing until the very end. However, the movie is a bit too implausible to be taken seriously, and it suffers from a messy script and an outdated concept. The lack of originality is compensated by solid performances from the actors involved. Liam Neeson turns in a great and very believable performance as the confused doctor, who struggles to get his true identity back. Diane Krugerdazzles as the bold and fearless, yet loyal stranger, Gina, and she just steals the show every time she appears on the screen. The snowy backdrop of Berlin is 'cold', yet stunningly-atmospheric, and the stylish, bluish cinematography reflects the dark and mysterious mood of the film. Collet-Serra's direction is a bit muddled in places, yet competent enough, offering lots of dynamic camera movements and crisp editing.

Overall summary: With its intriguing premise, spot-on execution, and strong lead performances by Liam Neeson and Diane Kruger, "Unknown" is a tense, unpredictable and thoroughly engrossing thriller that delivers, despite its confusing narrative and lack of believability.

12 comments:

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

I'll add it to my NetFlix queue!

FilmMattic said...

Liam Neeson is terrific. It's good to see you award his film a positive score. "Confusing narrative" aside, Unknown deserves the attention of moviegoers. Nice review.

Ricky said...

The trailer totally gave away the end of this movie.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Alex, it's kind of a crowd-pleaser. I think you're gonna like it.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Matty, I thought it was a solid thriller with great performances. Why should I give it a negative rating? :) Thanks, bud.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Ricky, it did? Damn. That's stupid. I haven't watched the trailer, and I'm glad I didn't.

Unknown said...

I have not seen this, but I do love Liam Neeson so I'll be watching this at some point. Your review amped up my interest so I might have to watch it sooner than later.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Mel, I love him too, and he doesn't disappoint with his role in "Unknown". Give it a shot and let me know what you think... ;)

Maurice Mitchell said...

Liam Neeson knows how to growl and this movie gave him an excuse. Not as good as the kidnapping movie, but the ending makes up for it.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Maurice, you're probably talking about "Taken". I haven't seen it, so I can't compare it to "Unknown", but I liked the latter for what it was. :)

Chris David Richards said...

Not as much fun as Taken then, but still worth a watch.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

Chris, unfortunately, I haven't seen "Taken", but many people say it's better than "Unknown". I have to give it a shot.