Review of The Mothman Prophecies (2002) by Luisrodrigo A — 19 Jun 2017

This underrated Mark Pellington's movie narrates the incidents experienced by John Klein (Richard Gere), a newlywed journalist whose life is taken by storm after his wife's passing. As he griefs and tries to piece together the events that led to this dire loss, he mysteriously ends up in a small town in countryside Ohio where he bears witness to a chain of unfathomable catastrophes with one very disturbing feature in common.

Slow-paced and shrouded in whispers, the film gradually builds up the plot as viewers are unknowingly driven to the edge of their seats. The soundtrack sets the mood, never lacking for high-pitched notes responsible for the suspense and thrill. The actors perform adequately. Their bonds and motivation are evident within the first half hour, leaving no room for doubting their beliefs and attitudes.

All the more petrifying, "The Mothman Prophecies" is said to be based on actual events, which makes the thin line between fiction and reality virtually invisible. The storyplot is enriched with witnesses, dates and true facts. One can only wonder how real the tales really are when confronted with such thorough details.

Mainstream audiences have definitely not done this film justice. Its compelling circumstances can certainly put one's dogmas to the test as the viewer journeys alongside a hurt widowed man who must endure unawareness while battling madness and fright. This motion picture offers new insights on life's everlasting dilemmas and it is sure to provide food for thought for those with an appetite for knowledge.