A- | A young woman's world unravels when a drug prescribed by her psychiatrist has unexpected side effects. Directed by Steven Soderbergh Starring Rooney Mara, Channing Tatum, and Jude Law Initial Review by Drew Landry |
Side Effects was a mystery thriller that took viewers on a topsy - turvy, psychological path. The direction, writing, and acting was something the MMC has yet to appreciate in that kind of genre and it was something the group needed to view.
The story took an interesting turn when Emily sought therapy from Dr. Victoria Siebert while Martin was in prison. This was where viewers realized she was attracted to Dr. Siebert. It was, as if, they started to plan their future under the guise of psychological sessions. Everything that transpired after Martin’s release was with a purpose. That plan was foiled when Dr. Jonathan Banks’ doctoral reputation was threatened. The downside, however, was his questionable motives and near obsession to clear his name. Despite that, the end justified the means.
Side Effects’ plot was incredibly interesting. Upon first view, it setup viewers for the ultimate slam. These types of films are vastly underrated. It could be, in part, due to the necessary time to develop the story. Such betrayal and conniving takes time to mature and director Steven Soderbergh played his hand masterfully.
He was able to take some underappreciated actors and plug them into roles that made them shine. Jude Law played Banks in a flawless fashion. To further the point, it is difficult to name several quality films that starred Catherine Zeta – Jones but this was one of her best performances. Finally, Rooney Mara played her manipulative role so well that she could easily do another just as well. Kudos to Soderbergh for finding the right pieces to a complex puzzle.
The only downside to Side Effects was Banks’ obsession to clear his name. Law played it great but Banks became obnoxious. It certainly worked out for him in the end but his antics pushed the ethical limits and his passion could easily be mistaken for tantrums.
Despite that one flaw, this was a solid film. It easily deserves a high mark for Soderbergh’s direction, Scott Burns’ writing, and actors’ portrayal. It could be plausible that viewers found other problems such as the film’s flow, some odd dialogue, but none of those heavily detracted from the film’s story. Highly recommended and reviewable.
Grade: A-
- Drew Landry
Side Effects’ plot was incredibly interesting. Upon first view, it setup viewers for the ultimate slam. These types of films are vastly underrated. It could be, in part, due to the necessary time to develop the story. Such betrayal and conniving takes time to mature and director Steven Soderbergh played his hand masterfully.
He was able to take some underappreciated actors and plug them into roles that made them shine. Jude Law played Banks in a flawless fashion. To further the point, it is difficult to name several quality films that starred Catherine Zeta – Jones but this was one of her best performances. Finally, Rooney Mara played her manipulative role so well that she could easily do another just as well. Kudos to Soderbergh for finding the right pieces to a complex puzzle.
The only downside to Side Effects was Banks’ obsession to clear his name. Law played it great but Banks became obnoxious. It certainly worked out for him in the end but his antics pushed the ethical limits and his passion could easily be mistaken for tantrums.
Despite that one flaw, this was a solid film. It easily deserves a high mark for Soderbergh’s direction, Scott Burns’ writing, and actors’ portrayal. It could be plausible that viewers found other problems such as the film’s flow, some odd dialogue, but none of those heavily detracted from the film’s story. Highly recommended and reviewable.
Grade: A-
- Drew Landry
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