"Derailed" is a film I have thoroughly enjoyed. It is not a perfect film by any means, but it is a good psychological thrill ride, with some unexpected moments.
Even though certain elements of the story have been seen before, the film works, thanks to the very appealing international cast and numerous twists. The only minus, in my opinion, is the occasional impression I had of unfinished plot points. I have not read James Siegel's novel yet but, as with many other adaptations, I would say that the film suffers from what can be called the "plot decline" syndrome; in other words, the original literary plot and characterizations often prove to be richer than their screen renditions, and such seems to be the case with "Derailed". Without being familiar with the book, I would say that deepening the relationship between the characters of Charles and Deanna and examining the LaRoche-Lucinda-Charles triangle further would have elevated the film to another level.
As for the cast, Clive Owen is convincing as a beleaguered average Joe, while Jennifer Aniston does a good job in one of her rare (so far) dramatic roles, being subtle, yet seductive and manipulative. However, it is the awesome Vincent Cassel who is a stand-out among the cast. I discovered him through this film, and I have to say that the man has incredible talent, intensity and charisma. His LaRoche is violent, cruel, unscrupulous and easily the most captivating character in the film.
Overall, "Derailed" could have been even braver and more layered in its explorations of adultery and the characters' relationships. Still, it is a film that one can lose oneself in and appreciate as a suspenseful cinema experience, with some excellent performances.
8/10
Even though certain elements of the story have been seen before, the film works, thanks to the very appealing international cast and numerous twists. The only minus, in my opinion, is the occasional impression I had of unfinished plot points. I have not read James Siegel's novel yet but, as with many other adaptations, I would say that the film suffers from what can be called the "plot decline" syndrome; in other words, the original literary plot and characterizations often prove to be richer than their screen renditions, and such seems to be the case with "Derailed". Without being familiar with the book, I would say that deepening the relationship between the characters of Charles and Deanna and examining the LaRoche-Lucinda-Charles triangle further would have elevated the film to another level.
As for the cast, Clive Owen is convincing as a beleaguered average Joe, while Jennifer Aniston does a good job in one of her rare (so far) dramatic roles, being subtle, yet seductive and manipulative. However, it is the awesome Vincent Cassel who is a stand-out among the cast. I discovered him through this film, and I have to say that the man has incredible talent, intensity and charisma. His LaRoche is violent, cruel, unscrupulous and easily the most captivating character in the film.
Overall, "Derailed" could have been even braver and more layered in its explorations of adultery and the characters' relationships. Still, it is a film that one can lose oneself in and appreciate as a suspenseful cinema experience, with some excellent performances.
8/10