Terry's Reviews Page
Terry reviews the latest Movies, Music and Books

Movies                    Music                    Books

Awake
The Weinstein Company Home Entertainment - 2008

Written & Directed by Joby Harold

Starring
Hayden Christensen
Jessica Alba
Lena Olin
Arliss Howard
Terrence Howard

AWAKE is way better than what I expected.  Just from the title and the trailer, which most of you probably saw in the theater or on TV, I'll guess that you believe that you already know what this movie is about.  I'll bet you are wrong.  AWAKE is a totally fresh take on a situation that looks have an obvious conclusion.

Joby Harold is a filmmaker to keep your eye on.  He combines twisting writing skills, as well as a impressive vision and has coaxed strong performances from all cast.

Hayden Christensen is really strong in this role.  He brings a duality to the proceedings that will make you appreciate his talent.  I don't think Jessica Alba has ever been better.  I'm kind of tired of seeing her smiling all the time and kind of cake-walking through her roles.  In AWAKE she has some more meat to her part and I like the way Harold uses her.  I don't care what anyone says, Lena Olin is one hot lady.  She looks dynamite for her age.  Terrence Howard is amassing a nice collection of characters in his young career.

AWAKE comes with some excellent Special Features:  Joby Harold provides some deep insight to how this film came together in his Feature Commentary.  Deleted Scenes  comes with Optional Commentary.  Under The Knife & Behind The Camera: The Making of Awake is what I look for in a good behind the scenes doc.  Informative, specific and enlightening, I enjoyed hearing from cast and crew how this underrated film was done.

I can't say enough about recommending you buying or renting AWAKE.  It's stylish, creepy and made with class.

www.awakethemovie.com