Review of Limitless (2011) by Mari O — 13 May 2013

'Obviously I miscalculated something.' The manner in which this film begins- through this quote - also serves well in being an appropriately apt way in which to begin a review on such a film. For all those trailers and press releases that have come before - as well as any reviews seen already - will not prepare you for what is on show here. This film is not particularly great or bad, in truth it is just good. 'Limitless' is a smart and intelligent thriller picture that is just different from what is expectant of the film.

Building enough tension throughout its narrative, whilst keeping the actors and characters portrayals grounded in a twisted reality can never have been easy, but here it is done with such authority that it is a wonder how many thrillers falter at this. Casting a lead actor that is only known to comedy audiences in a very serious role, was also a bold move by the filmmaking crew, but one that pays off, giving the dividend that Bradley Cooper brings to proceedings. His most assured performance, it is his troubled drug addicted writer that serves as our eyes, and yet he is emphatic and interesting the entire time he is on screen. In short 'Limitless' is a film that should be watched for this factor alone.

Starting with the most psychedelic opening credits in a long while, an interesting and well crafted manner in which to start this film, 'Limitless' quickly establishes Eddie Morra (Cooper) as a struggling writer suffering from mind block whilst completing his first novel - of which is required to complete his contractual agreement with a publisher. Struggling to fund his lifestyle, as well as finish his job, Eddie survives through the help of his girlfriend Lindy (Abbie Cornish). However, with stress and strains making it hard for her to keep a reason to keep with him, she splits up leaving Eddie with practically nothing. Desolate and alone Eddie wanders the streets of New York, where a chance meeting with his ex brother-in-law, Vernon(Johnny Whitworth), gives over a new illusive drug that is capable of opening the full potential of your brain. Taking this drug and loving the effects of being the best account of himself, Eddie finishes his book and looks to get more substance so as to complete more personal goals that he has set himself. However, whilst visiting Vernon again he is asked to run some errands only to return to the house with his ex brother-in-law killed. Stealing his stash, Eddie returns home thinking the world is his to conquer - figuratively of course - and to begin with it is. With meetings within wall-street, as well as making a fortune, Eddie soon impresses many people including business mogul, Carl Van Lune (Robert de Nero). However, when strangers begin appearing with seemingly the intent of hurting Eddie and all he cares for in hopes of getting the drug, it begins to lead to a cat and mouse hunt as staying ahead of the pursuers is the way in which to survive.

Aforementioned, the plot of this film really does deliver some of the tensest scenes found within a thriller movie, whether the chase sequences with nameless strangers all the moments that Eddie cannot remember from his substance abuse, the film is edited in such a way to always keep the audiences guessing. Stylish in its substance, the film really does bring about that feeling associated with the effects of the fictional drug, doing so by blending scenes of further eye width together, editing whole sequences to feel more like a rush - to see this film is to understand the reference made here, as well as incorporating key moments of the plot into the settings and locations, for instance whilst working on raising capitol on the stock exchange changes the location of the office to a collection of numbers and facts resonated on the ceiling. By doing these things, the director of this picture is able to blend us - the audience - into proceedings. We are a part of the scenery, thus, we have more interest in the plot; a good way in bringing further interest into the narratives progression.

Bradley Cooper, proves that he can handle drama as well as comedy within this role. It is his journey we undertake, and as such, through having an established lead actor who feels comfortable taking the reins really does help in making this film more believable. Abbie Cornish is also fitting in her largest role yet, with her foot-chase being the most tense part of an already fairly tension raising film. Her character brings across the need for sympathy in drawing attachment, and her performance is good enough to get this. De Nero, however, is greatly underused in this film. His mogul never takes the foreground role, or any really meaning to his actions. He is underdeveloped and a little dull, running over facts and figures that not all audience members will find interest in. He is appropriate to the picture to the time he is given as well as the screenplay he recites, but never is he anywhere near the level of greatness that is associated with this acting legends work.

As much as the styling, editing, special effects and storyline really draws into the effects that this substance is having on our lead, as well as outlining the darkest side of human nature and the greed in which all humans have, it also detracts at certain points within the film. In some instances the same effect is pushed into too many sequences that - having made a statement and interest on first showing - really gets to feeling slightly overused and thus boring on its third or fourth showing. It is moments like this where 'Limitless' really falls short. By making interesting and working shots that enhance the film, the filmmakers should have found more unique ways - if they are going to focus on said uniqueness like they do - instead of just recycling techniques too much throughout. It makes an interesting and entertaining moment of screen time, quickly become not needed and annoying.

'Limitless' is a well crafted and entertaining thriller film, that for the most part delivers an imaginative and tense storyline well. With a stellar performance out of its lead, This film will bring about a reevaluation of Bradley Coopers credentials, and deserved of this he is. With some film enhancing special effects at first adding to the feel of the film, before detracting in overabundance, 'Limitless' to encase audiences in the world depicted on screen. Balancing human nature - all aspects - with substance abuse, 'Limitless' is an engrossing look into what comes about when you have the full potential to achieve anything. B.