I’ve been taking a look at Keanu Reeves films that are currently available on Blu-ray in the UK or versions that will play on UK players. And it’s the latter that The Watcher from 2000 falls into unfortunately. So this will be a brief look at it with a more detailed one if and when it has a UK release. Here’s my The Watcher blu-ray review.
- The Watcher (2000) Import
- Genre: Thriller
- Directed by Joe Charbanic
- UK Rating N/A
- Discs: 1
- Released By Universal Pictures
- Blu-ray Import (USA)
Plot
LA FBI Special Agent Joel Campbell (James Spader) decides to escape the hell of a serial killer when a case goes wrong by moving to Chicago. However when the killer turns up in Chicago the killings begin again and its clear the killer wants a reunion with Special Agent Campbell.
Style / Direction
The films directed by Joe Charbanic whilst the cinematography is handled by Michael Chapman. There are some nice flashback sequences that give a somewhat blurred and distorted look which I found worked rather well.
Also when the victim or the main character played by James Spader are under surveillance by the watcher it’s done in a video tape style look. This is done to indicate it is the killer’s eyes we are seeing through. Again this is a good way to make it clear to the audience what is happening and also has the effect of ramping up the tension.
Music / Audio Effects
The music is composed by Marco Beltrami.
Acting / Characters
James Spader plays FBI Special Agent Joel Campbell the guy that is tasked with bringing a serial killer to justice. Keanu Reeves takes on the role of the killer. He seems to take pleasure in seeing Campbell struggle to solve the case. Both actors play their respective roles exceptionally well. This all makes for a hugely entertaining climax to the film.
Cast
- Keanu Reeves as David Allen Griffin
- James Spader as FBI Special Agent Joel Campbell
- Marisa Tomei as Dr. Polly Beilman
- Ernie Hudson as FBI Special Agent Mike Ibby
- Chris Ellis as Detective Hollis Mackie
- Robert Cicchini as FBI Special Agent Mitch Casper
Conclusion: The Watcher (2000) Film Review
If you enjoy a good thriller then The Watcher is certainly a film you should take a look at. James Spader takes on the role of the good guy FBI agent out to prevent a serial killer carrying out any further murders. The killer played by Keanu Reeves, actually gets a buzz and satisfaction having Spader’s character desperately running around against the clock to save the next victim. It’s extremely well done and has some nice camera techniques to give the feeling of the watcher watching.
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Conclusion: The Watcher Blu-ray Review
Hopefully the film will at some point receive a UK release but if you are prepared to obtain a imported version there are ones avaialble that play on UK players. Now to the picture quality and the news is good it looks free from any speckles of dirt whilst the image is sharp and clean. The only extra is the film trailer so its a little a basic.
Extras
- Original Theatrical Trailer
Popcorn Cinema Rating: The Watcher (2000)
MOVIE RATING: WELL WORTH WATCHING
BLU-RAY RATING: EXCELLENT
EXTRAS: BASIC
POPCORN CINEMA: RECOMMENDED
Purchase The Watcher (2000) On Blu-ray
The Watcher (2000) is available now on blu-ray if you are prepared to obtain an imported version or UK DVD.
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The Watcher (2000) Trailer
For those of you yet to see the film I’ll leave you with a little taster…
Clip not be representative of the blu-ray version
That just about concludes my The Watcher blu-ray review. You can find more Keanu Reeves film reviews on the site. I’m currently taking a look at all of his films that are available on Blu-ray.
Summary: The Watcher (2000) Blu-ray Review - Import
Movie title: The Watcher (2000)
Duration: 97 mins
Director(s): Joe Charbanic
Actor(s): James Spader, Keanu Reeves, Marisa Tomei, Ernie Hudson, Chris Ellis, Robert Cicchini,
Genre: Thriller
- Movie Rating
- Blu-ray Picture Rating
- Extras
Summary
A thoroughly gripping and disturbing thriller you don’t want to miss!
Pros
- Gripping Story
- Keanu Reeves/James Spader
Cons
- No UK Blu-ray Release
