Secret Window

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Secret Window
Starring Johnny Depp, John Turturro, Maria Bello, Timothy Hutton
Directed by David Koepp

Synopsis:
Mort Rainey (Johnny Depp) is a writer who is living in the middle of nowhere six months after finding his wife Amy (Maria Bello) in bed with another man.  As he struggles with facing divorce, he encounters something more dangerous.  A mysterious man named John Shooter (John Turturro) arrives unexpectedly, saying Mort stole a story of his, and he demands Mort write a better ending.  Mort doesn't believe the man, until he starts making his presence deadly.  Now Mort is on the hunt for what Shooter really wants, before he becomes the next victim.

Review:
Based off a short story by Stephen King, "Secret Window" is a classic noir-style thriller filled with hidden clues and subtle nuances that draws the viewer in from the start, pulling you into the mystery.  What is real?  What is imaginary?  How can you tell the difference?  That's what director David Koepp asks in this riveting thriller.

Johnny Depp delivers another peculiar performance, high off the heels of his first "Pirates of the Caribbean" movie.  Depp is well known for taking offbeat roles, and this is no different.  As struggling writer Mort Rainey, Depp draws you into his life, which is falling apart around him.  He's losing his wife, and possibly losing his mind. 

Even though the film revolves around Depp, John Turturro takes a step away from his generally humorous films to bring John Shooter to dark, foreboding life.  His performance here is something that isn't mentioned a lot, but deserves recognition for how downright terrifying it is.  He's the epitome of a southern gentleman - until you cross him.  But who is he really?  Is his story true, or is there another reason he's tormenting Mort? 

Stephen King once again delivers a dark thriller mixed with an intriguing mystery.

Summary:
A great thriller featuring one of today's most eccentric actors, "Secret Window" keeps you on the edge of your seat.

My Rating: A-

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