Review of Secret Window (2004) by Spangle — 17 Jan 2017

Secret Window is a run-of-the-mill psychological thriller with solid performances from a capable past, namely a neurotic and paranoid Johnny Depp and creepy Southern John Turturro. While its tricks that it has up its sleeves are hardly noteworthy, the performances are rock solid and the film is capably directed by David Koepp. While it is hardly a must-watch, it is one that can be watched and you can rest assured it will be solidly entertaining. That said, do not expect too much, as it is pretty familiar when it comes to psychological thrillers and its adherence to the cliches. Having not read the source material, it also feels oddly similar to King's novel The Dark Half, which I have read. Since The Dark Half has been adapted into a different film and this one is based on a short story published a year after that novel, I have no idea why this film was made. Hell, I do not really know why King wrote a short story on practically the same idea he put in an entire book.

After being confronted with a plagiarism accusation from John Shooter (John Turturro) regarding his short story "Secret Window", Morton Rainey (Johnny Depp) slowly discovers he is insane. Initially in denial about his own insanity, it quickly becomes apparent that this man should not be left alone as he is a danger to himself and society. While the twist is predictable for anybody familiar with King or movies in general, it is quite well handled and thoroughly compelling all the same. The film has a really engrossing sense of paranoia that really keeps you on edge as Morton begins to put things together and it really has no problems hooking you in from the very beginning.

Now, of course, a lot of that is due to Depp. He is never anything less than engrossing, even in bad films. He is sort of like Nicolas Cage in that way. He somehow breathes life into films where the material is below standard. Secret Window fits the bill there and is hardly Oscar-material. Yet, Depp makes it worthwhile playing the anger stricken husband with a cheating wife. His paranoia, neurosis, and obsession are all well-executed and Depp really brings it to life. By the end, you feel oddly sorry for the man as his story comes to life through his own tale. As a psycho, John Turturro is nothing less than stellar. He always brings his A-game and that is very much the case here as he plays the unhinged sociopath with ease and really has great chemistry with Depp in the scenes they share, which is a must.

Secret Window is a hard film to recommend. For those that like psychological thrillers, it is a bit too typical to really appeal. For those that do not, it may be appealing, but it does stick too closely to cliches to really change their opinions on the genre. While it does execute the cliches well and the ending is superb in the way it really grosses you out mentally and ties together with the short story he wrote, it is hard an excellent film. It is fun while it lasts with some unique elements, but is mostly just worth it for fans of Depp or the few people who like to check out Turturro appearances.