Rated PG for intense sequences of violent action, and some language.
Directed by Lee Tamahori (Die Another Day, The Edge, Mulholland Falls, Along Came a Spider)
Starring Nicolas Cage, Julianne Moore, Jessica Biel
I didn’t have high expectations for this one. I’m not a Nick Cage fan and the previews did not catch my interest. So I was pleasantly surprised with this entertaining tale—truly worth the rental.
The story is about Chris (Cage), a Las Vegas magician who can see two minutes into into the future. Chris’ ability leads him to be pursued by FBI agents seeking to use his abilities to prevent a nuclear terrorist attack.
The script was original, with just a taste of the Groundhog Day element of “what would you do if you could redo each moment, knowing exactly what lies ahead.” It was entertaining to see Cage “flash” future events and change his behavior accordingly. The film had bends throughout including a huge twist at the end.
The film definitely had some cheese factor, the largest being Cage’s hair. I don’t know if they were going for the typical “Vegas Magician’s” hairdo—whatever the case—cheese! The film also attempted some typical romantic moments between cradle robber Chris and twenty-something Liz (Beil). Sorry, I didn’t buy it.
I’ve heard some people criticize the ending, while others loved it. And that’s what will probably be the case: you’ll either love the ending or hate it. But I think you’ll enjoy the film regardless.
SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
Use your discernment. Most of the film has typical shootout violence kids see in every film. But the film also has some archetypal subtle stupidities like when Jessica Beil’s character walks out of the shower wrapped in a towel in front of Chris as if its no big deal (and then wonders why he’s staring at her. Hmmmmm). Modesty is becoming extinct to this new generation.
Conversation Starter
Three Simple Questions (with Answers You May Be Looking for):
- What are some of the messages or themes you observed in this movie?
- How do you suppose we—as serious Christ-followers—should react to this movie?
- How can we move from healthy, Bible-based opinions about this movie to actually living out those opinions?
