Review of Jennifer Eight (1992) by Craig E — 05 Jul 2009

Not everything I remembered it to be when I first saw it, but still a solid police procedural/suspense film. The cast is first rate and the script is very original. The only thing that doesn't really work is the conclusion which is played out a little too fast and a little too sloppily.

This was the first film that I really noticed John Malkovich as an actor as his bit part as an FBI investigator that appears towards the end seems to steal the entire show. That being said, the combination of Garcia, Thurman and Henriksen really elevates the material.

My biggest problem is in how much of the investigative aspects seem to fall into place rather than be truly discovered. Had the writer/director spent more time developing a credible line of evidence the film would have been so much more. As it stands now, it is more just a story involving a serial killer whose motives are quite unique.

Overall, if you happen to catch it on TV, it's worth checking out. It's not a classic or something that I would recommend people run out and see. But it has its strengths and is a satisfying piece of light entertainment.