13 Sins

13 Sins

Starring Mark Webber, Devon Graye, Rutina Wesley, Ron Perlman

Directed by Daniel Stamm

Synopsis:
Elliot Bridle (Mark Webber) is a loser.  He lost his job, his father has spent his whole life insulting him, he's been bullied throughout school, and now he has to care for his mentally challenged brother (Devon Graye).

His only tiny pinprick of light comes with his soon-to-be wife Shelby (Rutina Wesley) and their unborn child.  However, even this weighs on Elliot as now he has no way to financially support them.

Until one night he gets a mysterious call from a man who seems to be watching him, and invites him to play a simple game.  Thirteen tasks, and at the end, he'd be a millionaire.  At first it seemed like innocent events (killing and eating a fly), but they soon escalate to violence and murder.  Elliot can't get out because if he does, he'll lose everything and go to jail.

Who is behind this?  Why are they doing it?  Why did they pick Elliot?  The answers are as elusive as the tasks he must achieve.

Review:
"13 Sins" is a remake of an Asian film back in 2006, and as it usually goes with an American remake of an Asian horror film, the original is far better (I haven't seen the original, just going off previous American flops).

The concept is highly engaging and thought-provoking, especially in our day and age.  Being watched constantly is something we're all accustomed to, with surveillance cameras everywhere, there's hardly a place that is truly secluded.  Plus there's many sick people out there with loads of power and money who get bored and want to play with the common folk, which is what happens to Elliot, as he becomes an unwitting pawn in a bigger game.

There is a purpose in the game, which is revealed to prove that anyone - given the right circumstances  - can become a monster.  Everyone has a price, and the question becomes: "what would you do to be a millionaire?"

As I stated earlier, the concept is intriguing, but unfortunately the execution is lacking.  Everything is mediocre, from the acting to the different subplots.  Some are just downright silly, such as the scene with the motorcyclists (you'll know it when you see it). 

Summary:
A great concept, with a sub-par execution.

My Rating: B-