Evan Graves

Well done movie and well worth the watch. I see some negative reviews written by others and I believe I know the reason why. This movie is methodical and detailed. There are many scenes that are directional, ultimately leading the events and dictating the final outcome. There are also instances of specific lines that are strikingly subtle, yet vastly important, leaving small clues toward the motives and reasoning of the characters as they psychologically battle throughout the duration of the film. Several of these defining indicators are easily missed by the majority of viewers, leaving them confused by the storytelling, causing them to question events that occur unnaturally from their obscured perspective. I enjoy intricate movies, especially those that are unpredictable and suspenseful. As someone self-appointed to the title of Intellectual, I appreciate films that contain the ability to surprise me. Far too often I can visualize the outcome of movies before the reveal has taken place. This one left me guessing until the crescendo. There are no open ends or unanswered questions. If you believe there are, rewatch the film and you are more likely to understand the development of the personalities. This is common in movies similar to 'Inception' starring Leonardo Dicaprio. The message of the storyline is simple: "It's crazy that you can live your whole life with someone and not actually know them". This line was said by Annie in the film and becomes a prominent theme throughout. Through nearly the entire cinematic experience, you are led to believe Ethan is the moral character, the one you determine deserves justice, yet this couldn't be farther from reality. Until the point he eventually cracks at the end, he maintains a consistent charade, pulling you towards the false sense that Jackson is psychotic, obsessed, or on the spectrum. Both main adversaries, Ethan and Jackson, are immensely intelligent. After all, one is a private tutor for billionaires and the other capable of scoring flawless SAT scores. This is certainly a war of wits until the conclusion, at which point Jackson is victorious as his action were better planned and Ethan allowed his emotions cloud his judgment. The acting overall is laudable and the way Ethan is able to switch between such distinctly different sides of himself within seconds is noteworthy. Thank you for taking the time to read my opinion, Evan.