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"Note to Self: Only
Pick Up Hitch-Hikers Who
Look Like This.." |
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Directed by Dave Myers -
Written by Eric Bernt,
Jake Wade Wall
Starring Sean Bean,
Sophia Bush, Zachary
Knighton
Distributed by Rogue -
2007 - 90m - Rated R |
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Energetic - Well Acted - Utterly Redundant |
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This fast-paced remake
of the cable-TV cult-classic starring Rutger Hauer borrows too much
from recent teen horror flicks and too little from the simplicity of
the original. Without going so far as to claim the original as a
classic film, it certainly ranks as a guilty pleasure -- one that
builds tension to a level worthy of "bigger films". It is
unfortunate that this new version wastes some very good performances
on a screenplay that devises too many ridiculously unbelievable
character choices.
Rutger has a certain something... almost like Steven Seagal or
Christopher Lambert... a way of turning a B-movie into a watchable
effort. Those types of actors have carved out a nitch for
themselves, relying on a loyal fanbase for automatic DVD rentals.
His eighties role as "The Hitcher" is a perfect example of B-movie
greatness.
In this new version, the title role falls to Sean Bean -- an actor
capable of the ruthlessness and rugged determination required from
the part. If Hauer hadn't already stamped his imprint on the role,
Bean would be getting more praise. His prey... two college kids, Jim
and Grace, on their way to Lake Havasu for spring break.
Grace is played by the delectable Sophia Bush. She certainly looks
the part of the hottie horror queen. I've been looking forward to
seeing the "One Tree Hill" actress make a few worthy leaps to the
big screen. After all, when you look like that, it is inevitable
that Hollywood is going to do everything in their power to make you
a star. The length of her career will depend on her talent and her
choices in scripts. Based on this film, her talent is not
questionable -- she has what it takes. Unfortunately, her film
selection may need some work. She's made half a dozen movies in the
last few years and none of them have been noteworthy. I hope she
wises up fast and puts her immeasurable physical gifts and her solid
acting talent to better use in the near future.
The weakest link in the main trio of this film is that of Zachary
Knighton, a young actor whose lack of experience with leading roles
is all too evident here. He doesn't carry the emotional range
necessary to create a sympathetic character. C. Thomas Howell had
the original part, but somehow, despite his acting shortcomings, he
managed to create a memorable character. Knighton is a cardboard
cutout and lets the film down considerably.
Still, the chase scenes and stand-offs are well staged and fast
paced. If some of the characters hadn't made ludicrous decisions
(most notably the cops), this film would have been believable enough
to generate real thrills. As it stands, "The Hitcher" (2007) is a
rather unnecessary remake that will only remain in the recesses of
your mind because of a cold-blooded turn by Sean Bean and nice
effort by a sexy young thing in a denim mini-skirt. The rest of the
film is better watched when the original makes the late night rounds
on the HBO, TBS and USA TV networks. |
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© Written by TC Candler -
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Hall's Comment
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