Review of Vantage Point (2008) by Mohammad Javad H — 27 Dec 2012

Good movie...

It's very rare to find a film that has non-stop excitement and suspense, while at the same time managing to be quite a smart and engaging thriller which offers something new and original. This film happens to fit the bill, perfectly I might add.

The story starts off with a bang, literally as a peace summit is rocked by the assassination of the U.S. President and a subsequent bomb blast. Then the film rewinds on itself, and we go back 23 minutes before this tragedy, to witness the moments leading up to it through the eyes of one of the Secret Service agents escorting the President. The inevitable happens, and we rewind again by 23 minutes to see the events which are about to take place, but this time through the eyes of another witness. We soon get to see the point of view of the tragedy from many different perspectives, and each time another clue comes our way as to what is happening and why.

And this is what sets it apart from many in the genre, as the clues start stacking up and the plot starts dishing up twists and turns at every corner. The final twist will definitely leave you in shock, and then soon have you on the edge of your seat for one of the most audacious and thrilling car chases ever seen on film.

The performances are all excellent, especially Dennis Quaid (as the lead Secret Service agent) and Forrest Whitaker (as an American tourist). Sigourney Weaver seemed under-utilised, but when that's the only complaint of a film, you'r emore than willing to accept it. Definitely one of the best action thrillers.