The Disappearance of Alice Creed- Review

Not too shabby, certainly great for a first feature. Director J. Blakeson (previously wrote 'The Descent: Part 2') has created a visually assaultive, intriguing thriller with the use of little to no locations. Shows how important a good cast and editor are. This cast includes the up and coming british actress Gemma Arterton, who you may have noticed as a stand out in Prince of Persia, Quantum of Solace, and the new Clash of the Titans (I certainly did). Although she really isn't anything special here. But maybe that's just because her character is dumbed down to a whiny rich girl who is naked all the time, cries a bunch, then yells a ton, and then screams some more all throughout the entire film. I, in particular, really enjoyed the performances from the two other leads (the only other characters in the film), Eddie Marsan (a great character actor who is less known than he should be) and Martin Compston. Their back and forth dialogue is the only thing that actually helps the film move along really, and move along it does...and move along I will. A bunch of criminals kidnap a rich girl and hold her ransom. But as their crime heads down the road, details are revealed and the situation at hand alters quite a bit. I won't say more than that. Also I liked the cinematography toward the end. Check this out:



Nothing like a burning car to knock some symbolism into your head. Overall, this is a good film and I look forward to seeing whatever Blakeson comes up with next. But there is no need to rush to this one.

- Jeff Bassin