A Perfect Getaway (2009) Review - 7

A Perfect Getaway 7/10

A slasher drama that offers itself to a large amount of film enthusiasts maybe hard to come by but A Perfect Getaway seems to think otherwise. The film has something for everyone... well maybe not the kids, but in retrospect compared to predictable slasher films A Perfect Getaway stands out quite nicely. The boasting of a naturally stunning setting, a few heart throb cast members and queasy gory action are all topped off by an intriguing storyline that urges audiences to keep on guessing.

Written and Directed by David Twohy film critics may be a bit sceptical about this 2009 production due to Twohy's lack of directing experience. Notably his previous works have included Pitch Black (2000) and Chronicles of Riddick (2004). With Chronicles being his last directing production five years ago, A Perfect Getaway is a chance for Twohy to really make a name for himself. He starts by casting some well known faces as well as some promising talent for the future. Recognised talent of Milla Jovovich (5th Element and Resident Evil) and Timothy Olyphant (Hitman and Die Hard) are joined by Steve Zahn, Kiele Sanchez and Chris Hemsworth who would later star in hit film The Avengers.

The slasher drama cuts itself open when Honeymooners Cydney (Milla) and Cliff (Steve Zahn) vacation in Hawaii to explore the natural beauty and experience the 'perfect getaway'. Not long after they arrive on the beautiful island, unsettling news comes their way of a psychopathic couple who have been murdering tourists. The couples dream vacation soon turns to discomfort as suspicion and danger surround there every step. Events transpire which result in the newly-weds teaming up another questionable couple out of desperation rather than sensibility. As they travel deeper and deeper into their Hawaiian exploration, their relationship with the untrustworthy couple becomes strained and tension rises between them.

Milla Jovovich

The cast all work well to make characters their own and drive themselves away from the traditional or favourable roles in which they have been better comforted. Milla Jovovich steps away from her better suited hard hitting action role to play a more sensitive and playful individual, showing how versatile she actually can be. She as an individual helps create realism in both mood and character, which overall allows the continuity to be maintained throughout the film.
Another character worth mentioning is Timothy Olyphant. His quirky mannerisms bring about a mixture of style allowing depth to his character. The character that he brings to the film is almost schizophrenic as his questionable background and approach to life seems somewhat exaggerated.  Everything from his delivery of lines to his facial expressions help represent an interesting character perfect for the mystery thriller genre. Overall, the acting is respectable and actors can be pleased with their performances. No it won't be there best performance or best production but they certainly have nothing to feel ashamed about bringing the most out of the storyline.

Timothy Olyphant

What is clever about the film is how Twohy allows the audience to keep on guessing until he is ready to reveal his grand finale. His playful use of mixed lighting integrated with low pitch music allow presumptions to from surrounding certainly characters, constantly shifting in connotation and meaning throughout. The script is well written and with the help of the acting the characters are strong and well thought out. Where in cases films maybe flawed for their plot holes or lack of creativity A Perfect Getaway presents a playful and faultless storyline that has a freshness about it.

David Twohy should be pleased with his efforts to make a film that stands out from others in its genre as it does just that. Not only is the script well written but the stylistics of camera work and technical aspects should be appreciated. Shots incorporate a mixture of meaning as well a visual attraction which is hard to come by. As an example the use of a Point of view shot shows the danger of a scenario but at the same time captures beautiful vibrant colours that allow crispness to scenes.

As a whole, the film delivers a refreshing taste of the thriller genre and differs from what has been replicated time and time again. Its clever shifting narrative make audiences edgily watch on and eager to stick with it till the end. The film might not be a classic but it certainly surpasses expectations surrounding its success. A perfect Getaway is different from what people have been used to and that is why it deserves its credit. Its structure is solid, it boasts consideration and thought behind shots and scenes and is the ideal watch if you're looking for something fresh. It may not be a perfect film but it certainly is a getaway from the everyday thriller.