German director Mennan Yapo (Framed) should be given kudos for weaving this jumbled plot into something that is at least entertaining. Of course, Sandra Bullock's performance contributes to that. Still, I think much of the movie plods along too slowly. There are of course intrigue and mysteries and suspense, but there were times when I looked at my watch and wished the pace would pick up. And the ending — I think I understand the meaning of the ending, and why they want it that way. Premonition is really a philosophical meditation on love, relationships, meanings, and choices. Still, for anyone expecting some kind of real resolution, the ending is a letdown. The whole thing seems like a long revelation. I'm looking forward to seeing the alternate ending.
On top of that, just because of how the events are played out, it's very frustrating to watch Linda repeating everything she "sees" in her premonitions, and without noticing that she's doing it. I mean, hello? She's not all that bright, is she? And that's frustrating. If she knows her husband is going to die or something is going to happen to her daughter, why not try everything she can to stop it, like tying him up or something? I understand — yes, I do — why the events have to happen because of its philosophical theme, but as a story, the character loses her credibility. And that's one thing I find very annoying. I really wanted to love this movie, but if I had had any premonition about this before, I would have chosen to wait for it on Netflix.
Stars: Sandra Bullock, Julian McMahon, Shyann McClure, Courtney Taylor Burness, Nia Long, Peter Stomare, Kate Nelligan
Director: Mennan Yapo
Writers: Bill Kelly
Distributor: Sony Pictures
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for some violent, disturbing images, thematic material and brief language
Running Time: 110 Minutes
Ratings:
- Script: 6
- Performance: 7
- Direction: 6
- Cinematography: 7
- Music/Sound: 7
- Editing: 7
- Production: 7
Article comments
1 - Lisa McKay
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