Taking Lives

I didn't know what to expect from this Angelina Jolie picture. Was it going to be a genereic suspense thriller, or would it have a good twist or something else that made it special? Well, I wasn't overly impressed, but I wasn't dissapointed either.
The basic plot involves a guy who kills someone and then takes thier life, lives it until he gets tired of it. Local police call in Jolie's character, an FBI agent with an uncanny eye for detail and a knack for finding the perp. After following the lead of a witness, played by Ethan Hawke, they go after one guy. One thing leads to another and thier lead suspect is killed. They think enerything is wrapped up, but it turns out that all isn't as it seems. I'm not going to ruin everything for you, mostly because the ending is pretty creative.
Well, yeah, it kinda followed the basic structure of a lot of thrillers released in the last few years. A little misdirection here, some clever casting there. The supporting cast, even Jolie, are pretty solid throughout. The french cops are played by Tcheky Karyo and Oliver Martinez. I've always liked Karyo, he's always pretty solid. And I've seen Martinez in three films, and his stock keeps rising. His characters have all been different, and it doesn't seem like its the same guy playing them. He's kind of a chameleon.
Usually, I could do with or without Ethan Hawke, but he pulls this creepy role off pretty well. Especially towards the end when....well, I can't say. The big surprise, and the most clever use of casting this year has to be Keifer Sutherland. He is used quite well here, and as usual, pulls off the creepy guy with flare and style.
There are a few twists, and it kept me guessing for a little while. It was a solid effort by all, and I'm glad I got to see it. Its getting a 7 of 10. Good job.

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