Magnolia Boddy

Devoid of slithering alien creatures and outer space explosions, “Vivarium” is an old-fashioned science fiction movie reminiscent of classic “Twilight Zone” episodes. With imagery as stark and meticulous as its identical suburban house setting, the film hits a nerve for those of us stuck in a soul-withering life routine. But, the nuanced performances of beleaguered Imogen Poots and Jesse Eisenberg maintain the pace of the film and prevent the cyclic story from feeling as humdrum for its viewers. A taut, terse script prevents confusing convolution, resulting in a perfectly gripping and unsettling film.

Though shot with an artful eye, the film's lazy dialogue and meandering story will leave a viewer feeling jetlagged. Lush, edgy, and violent, yet somehow underwhelming, HOLIDAY feels as fleeting as a quick weekend getaway.