The Messengers

Although a Sam Raimi production, he was not the director (after watching Spiderman 3, I thank goodness for that small respite from Raimi)! The Pang brothers (of “The Eye”) directed, so I didn’t expect any straight forward, in-your-face horror, shock, or suspense. I already knew the entire film would rely on gloomy eeriness. That’s the Pang “thang,” after all. So, we begin.

The subplots of familial relations and trust, blah, blah, blah, is a little tired nowadays. Add to that performances that couldn’t begin to help. I do say that Miller is pretty believable. McDermot doesn’t fit the character or setting or acting profession, which is one reason that aspects of his character seem so contrived, to the point of patronizing the audience. I won’t give away the bad guy, but you should figure it out with ease, since the movie just doesn’t give that many options from which to choose. The protagonist, the daughter/sister does alright for her age. I’d wager she’s been taking too many acting classes, which makes her performance over-the-top in too many respects.

The plot is alright, but, aside from its obviousness, is just borrowed from other, more familiar stories. The cinematography, when the Pangs are involved, is at least respectable. They always have concrete ideas of how to scare before beginning a film. Thus, they bring a J-horror twist to the film. In the end, however, it’s just not enough. You know the antagonist; you know the plot and story; and so you anticipate a huge, eye-candy climax. But your eyes are left starving. It’s worth a rent during the week if you like soap operas. It’s a 5 outta 10.