Viewed in
2007
Premise
A brain-damaged former golden boy helps some theives rob the bank where he works.
Who should watch
Those who like well-acted, well-told thrillers.
Thoughts
Arguable the best film of the year. It would be easy to call it 'Memento' with heart, but that would not do justice to this film's greatness.
In 'The Lookout', the memory issue was not a gimmick, but a part of the main character's complex character. He was physically, mentally, and emotionally scarred. It took an excellent actor to pull this off. Joseph Gordon-Levitt's natural, subtle performance totally embodied this wonderful, struggling character and deserved a Best Actor nomination.
The rest of the film was no slouch either. All the minor characters were well-written and multi-dimensional as well. Jeff Daniels was cool as the politically incorrect blind roommate, and Isla Fisher showed that she was more than just a pretty face. The only flaw was the very little screentime for the gorgeous Carla Gugino.
Actors cannot perform magic without a great script. Scott Frank's writing and directing created a tense, emotional and engrossing story. I wanted to talk about all the great moments in this film, big and small, but I fear giving away too much.
Anyways, go see this, you will not be disappointed.
What I would change
Nothing.
