Review of Mr. Brooks (2007) by Danny R — 09 Nov 2010

A Spellbinding psychological thriller where Kevin Costner delivers his finest performance in years as Earl Brooks, a highly successful businessman, who is a devoted husband and a loving father, and a publicly honored humanitarian.

But he is also schizophrenic, fragmented sociopath who is a instatiable serial killer, unable to control his horrific addiction, he stalks the night to fulfill his murderous sadistic urges. Mr.Brooks struggles with all-too-real alternate, separate personality, a kind of dark alter-ego named Marshall, that is superbly played by William Hurt who drives his actions.

He has never been suspected by anyone-until now. Mr. Books kills a couple while they were having sex in their bedroom, failing to notice that window curtains were open, he is photographed by a pesky peeping tom standing at the window of the murder scene, he shows up the next day at Mr.

Brooks's company and blackmails him not for money, but to accompany him on his next murder. And complicating matters further a feisty and stubborn police detective, played by Demi Moore in intense performance is hot on their trail, and has now become part of this deadly game of cat and mouse.

Fine direction by Bruce A. Evans with excellent supporting performances by Marg Heigenberger, Ruben Santiago-Hudson, Dallielle Panabaker and Asiha Hinds. Special Kudos must go Costner for his riveting turn as the conflicted murderer Mr.

Brooks, who is low-key and charming, which allows the audience to root for him even though we know he is a vicious killer. Impressive cinematography by John Lindley and a solid score by Ramin Djawai. A totally enthralling film.

Highly Recommended.