Review of 1408 (2007) by Emily P — 09 Mar 2012

1408 is a film that has a fantastic premise but just doesn't deliver the premise's desired goods.

John Cusack is Mike Enslin, a man obsessed with finding a paranormal phenomenon or activity. Mike hasn't witnessed a supernatural event in his life but has visited various haunted areas and produced books on his wear 'findings'. So the paranormal-er has a slightly cocky side to him when he prepares to enter 1408 at the Dolphin Hotel. Little does he know that this event could badly affect him mentally and psychologically as Cusack is put through a roller-coaster ride!

Also starring is Samuel L Jackson and Mary McCormack who both put in good performances alongside main star Cusack who seems like the perfect man for the role.

However, when I watch a horror film I like to get a type of buzz but sadly there wasn't one in with the package. Sure it's creepy in parts, but if you watch the trailer you are more or less seeing the whole bunch of scares which is disappointing.

Also, why so confusing? Director Mikael Hafstrom could have extended the film by another 10-15 minutes so that audiences get a firm idea of what the film is actually about instead of guessing; I guarantee that for any viewer not that intellectual they will be straight on Yahoo Answers afterwards! An even better idea would be to find the short story created by horror genius Steven King somewhere.

To finish off my review on a positive, I have to say that it was very engaging. The acting was to a very good standard and the plot was most intriguing; it's just a massive shame that a film set up as nicely as this falls flat on a number of levels.