Don't Watch (er)... Review on The Watcher Movie

I was gravely disappointed in this film. I did not think it would be a GREAT film, but my expectations were higher with stars like James Spader and Keanu Reeves. Both, in my opinion were totally miscast. James Spader has proven himself with strong roles that are complex, quick-witted and some roles that show his sexy side (The Practice, Sex Lies & Video Tape). Reeves, also plays some strong roles (Speed, The Matrix) but he is NOT a very good serial killer!

This movie, simply is about a serial killer, David Griffen (Reeves) and an ex-FBI agent, Joel Campbell (Spader) who play cat and mouse while Campbell suffers from extreme migraines. The plot is very poor and even more, no development of the characters. This film would have been better with more depiction of Reeves as a crazy psychopath which he tried to impress upon us with his swirling around with his hands up in the air like he is dancing... Off-camera issues with the Director are not enough to explain such a poor character. Not only miscast but he should have declined from the get-go.

Spader was fine, but just fine. He has such ability to be more intense and they could have improved the film by developing his character as well. Flashbacks or story-telling would have added more and made the viewer more sympathetic to his role.

Marissa Tomei as Campbell's Therapist was fine, but again no details to her character. Only a short comment to Campbell about her being so young and not able to be choosy when she ''takes on Griffen as a patient''. Again, that would have been interesting too.

Overall, not good chemistry nor well-thought out ideas and decisions. Two great actors and on my personal favorites with amazing potential. It is a shame that this was not as I would have expected.