Feature Film | Sci-Fi | USA | English | 1h45m
Dir: Neil Burger | Scr: Leslie Dixon | Novel: Alan Glynn | Ph: Jo Willems | Prod: Leslie Dixon, Ryan Kavanaugh, & Scott Kroopf | Mus: Paul Leonard-Morgan | Ed: Tracy Adams & Naomi Geraghty | PD: Patrizia von Brandenstein | Snd: Paul Urmson | Cast: Bradley Cooper, Robert De Niro, Abbie Cornish, Andrew Howard, Anna Friel, Johnny Whitworth, Tomas Arana
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After being given a revolutionary new drug by his former brother-in-law – a drug that allows its taker to fully utilise every part of their brain – a struggling young writer suddenly realises that his potential is limitless… or, at least it would be if he could remain under the influence, as he soon discovers that the effects wear off all too quickly. Never the less, fate soon plays a hand, with a huge stash of tablets suddenly coming into his possession, allowing him, in the space of just a few short weeks, to finish off his book, win back his girlfriend, and become a stock market sensation. Of course, as is always the case, the inevitable drawbacks soon begin to make themselves known, complicating his life immeasurably in the process, in this stylish piece of science-fiction. Fair performances, inventive action sequences, and striking, oft brilliant visuals combine to generally thrilling effect. However, the ending – coming about perhaps a little too easily – never feels entirely convincing.
