Review of TransSiberian (2008) by Claire W — 18 Jan 2009

Another remarkable thriller from Director Brad Anderson, who has made great strides in refining the genre with his terrific entries. Although it is not quite up to par with "The Machinist" or "Session 9" in terms of intensity or dreary atmospherics, it really does excel in conveying its narrative.

The visuals really do create a sense of isolation amidst the frozen Russian tundra, and you get the notion that the protagonists are really helpless and falling into great danger. Emily Mortimer does well in a rare leading role, and she really does a good job at bolstering the overall intensity of the film.

Sir Ben Kingsley is also great as always, playing the antagonist whose motives are not as clear as they seem. Overall, a very solid thriller by a master in the genre.