Review of Before I Go to Sleep (2014) by Mirza Mohd S — 21 Nov 2014

A thriller based on amnesia is certainly not among the most original ideas, as we have had some wonderful films with similar themes over the years (Memento, Total Recall etc). Nevertheless, the best thing about this film even with the cliche plot is that it dares to be different.

The simple yet satisfying plot-line of this movie, spelled out by our lead protagonist in the opening scene is enough to draw anyone into this wonderful thrill ride of our lead character trying to put back together the memory of the her last 14 years, lost apparently after an 'accident' involving a mystery perpetrator.

Director Rowan Joffe has made sure the film is paced at a breakneck speed, with enough jarring lurid scenes & sufficient twists & turns, never allowing audience members to get bored or have enough time to ponder the numerous plot holes noticed after the final credits.

Yes! Their are some ridiculous plot holes, which cant be revealed without giving out the the suspense of the ending. Another of the film's major assets is the brilliant performances from the central three characters.

Nicole Kidman has a lot of acting to do in this role and she does it very well. Her character is sympathetic & she pulls that of with aplomb! Colin Firth and Mark Strong, two of my favorite actors, are both excellent and keep you guessing throughout.

They both match each other on levels of sinister and downright frightening unpredictability. Not only that such fantastic acting is a joy to watch, it also helps the plot-line to be accepted by everyone without any questions, who might generally think twice if only they weren't having so much fun.

On the whole Before I Go To Sleep is both a little silly & a satisfying psychological keep you guessing kinda thriller, which doesn't promise any groundbreaking original stuff but instead just lots of fun!