Review of Joshua (2007) by Richard S — 12 Jan 2008

Here's another instance of a mismarketed genre film. The cover and the online blurbs suggest another Omen ripoff, but there's nothing supernatural and rarely anything far fetched. It's more an examination of aloof haute-yuppie parenting and postpartum depression. As such, I'd imagine it'll disappoint a number of fans who do want a new Omen, but pass underneath the radar of most who could appreciate some of the humor.

It's never quite as thoughtful as it would like to be. Maybe it's because despite all of the ambiguity, we know full well that Joshua really IS bad. We're just waiting to see how far he'll go. There are two supporting characters who could open doors to some intriguing contemporary issues, but that's kept to surface levels. Maybe some of the subtlety is an excuse for being afraid to dive right into the issues. By the same coin, there are tense moments, but it never builds to Polanski levels of unease.

There are some major missteps toward the end. Most significant is the inappropriate use of a Dave Matthews song. Regardless, it's an interesting film and one that could very well slip through the cracks. Plus, it's the only film to feature a nine year old offering a hobo $5 if he can throw a rock at him. That has to count for something!