Review of Surveillance (2006) by Brent C — 23 Feb 2012

In "Surveillance" one gets a dark, disturbing, and somewhat off-beat thriller (with a little dark comedy mixed in) of a film that one either like or not. It is that simple. To this reviewer, there seems to be any middle ground to occupy. Now that is out of the way it is on to the main review.

"Surveillance" is Jennifer Lynch's, daughter of famed filmmaker David Lynch, second film and while it is flawed it is still a worthwhile film. The cast is led by Bill Pullman (Lost Highway, Zero Effect) and Julia Ormond in an atypical calm, seductive role. The aforementioned play FBI agents that are investigating and interrogating witnesses and suspects in a surreal, disjointed crime that does not seem to make much sense even as they gather information from a police officer, a now orphaned little girl, and a cocaine addict whose drug habit may have altered her perception of the events.

As the story is unfolds it becomes more complex and confusing as each person, with the exception of the little girl, lies in order to avoid any possible suspicion. Despite, this the surreal, disjointed nature of the film is truly in the films favor as it adds suspence and tension as the film weaves itself in this labyrinth of deceit and violence. In this way, no one is safe from suspicion.

The characters are portrayed admirably by the cast. Pullman and Ormond are cool and confident FBI agents, but also display a sort of distance that make them all the more interesting. The most peculiar casting choices are French Stewart, of Third Rock from the Sun, as a sadistic cop that preys on innocent roadside victims and Cheri Oteri, of Saturday Night Live fame, as the mother of the aftorementioned little girl. Michael Ironside also gives a passable performance as a police chief. The rest of the cast is rounded out by unknowns that give good performances, but nothing that really stands out.

What really helps the film in the end the beautiful way in which it is shot and the consistency in the mood of the film. This films is definitely not perfect, but Jennifer Lynch delivers an above average film that holds up much better than the summer blockbusters dominating film theaters right now.

It is fair to note that this film is pretty violent and disturbing. I speak specifically of the cops treatment of the people they "pull over" and a scene in the last five minutes of the film. If one can stomach it then give this film a try.

Director: Jennifer Lynch.

Cast: Bill Pullman, Julia Ormond, French Stewart, Michael Ironside, Cheri Oteri, Kent Harper, Ryan Simpkins etc....

Rating: R.

Runtime: 97 Minutes.

Theatrical Release Date: June 26, 2009 (Limited).

DVD Release: August 16, 2009.