What can I say? If not for the talented Mr. Dylan Sprouse, I would have shut this movie off within the first 5 minutes. However, from his very first scene, I knew I was in for a treat from Mr. Sprouse. Sure, he was a little stilted in the beginning, but he quickly overcame that as the intensity of his character grew.
Now onto the protagonist, Mr. Butler played by Kent Osborne. I think he should stick to creative consulting, because I just don't think acting is his forte. And sadly, this was never more evident than when he was in scenes with Dylan. While I should have been rooting for Mr. Butler, I found myself rooting for Lucas simply because I found the portrayal and characterization of Mr. Butler absolutely boring and lifeless. Why anyone would look to him as a mentor or even as someone who inspires "romantic" feelings (as the character of Becca seemingly felt) is beyond my understanding?
I do think the characterization of Lucas's character was supremely lacking. Why is he the way he is? Did something happen in his childhood? How did his mother die? All these, questions and so little answers. This lack of characterization was a hindrance in understanding the motivation of this character. Yes, I understand he was a perfectionist and demanded as much from himself, but what drove him to the point of murder? However, despite all these holes, like I mentioned before, I give major kudos to Dylan Sprouse, as he made this character his own, and really created a believable performance. I look forward to seeing more from this talented young actor.
I would say, watch it, for Dylan's performance alone. Everything else...meh.
Now onto the protagonist, Mr. Butler played by Kent Osborne. I think he should stick to creative consulting, because I just don't think acting is his forte. And sadly, this was never more evident than when he was in scenes with Dylan. While I should have been rooting for Mr. Butler, I found myself rooting for Lucas simply because I found the portrayal and characterization of Mr. Butler absolutely boring and lifeless. Why anyone would look to him as a mentor or even as someone who inspires "romantic" feelings (as the character of Becca seemingly felt) is beyond my understanding?
I do think the characterization of Lucas's character was supremely lacking. Why is he the way he is? Did something happen in his childhood? How did his mother die? All these, questions and so little answers. This lack of characterization was a hindrance in understanding the motivation of this character. Yes, I understand he was a perfectionist and demanded as much from himself, but what drove him to the point of murder? However, despite all these holes, like I mentioned before, I give major kudos to Dylan Sprouse, as he made this character his own, and really created a believable performance. I look forward to seeing more from this talented young actor.
I would say, watch it, for Dylan's performance alone. Everything else...meh.