A Perfect Getaway (Movie Review)

‘A Perfect Getaway’ is one of the most predictable whodunnit thriller films of 2009. As a result, the second half isn’t as enjoyable since we already know who the killers are. It’s still fun, but I wish writer/director David Twohy (Pitch Black) had made it more challenging for us to figure out. The excitement of trying to identify the killers is what makes these types of films engaging (e.g., Memento).

The storyline is engaging. A Hawaiian honeymoon turns dangerous for two lovers (Steve Zahn and Milla Jovovich) when they realize they’re being stalked by a pair of killers: Nick (Timothy Olyphant) and Gina (Kiele Sanchez), a couple of unmarried adventurers seeking one more destination for their globe-trotting resume, and Kale (Chris Hemsworth) and Cleo (Marley Shelton), a surfer/hippie duo showing signs of anti-social behavior. But who could it be? (Cue the horror music).

The film starts amusingly, with plenty of character development that allows the audience to connect with the protagonists. This is a clever move by the director, as it’s a known rule that audiences tend to like characters they know well. However, it backfires because Twohy tries so hard to surprise everyone that he ends up surprising no one. There’s a twist in the middle that’s so predictable it feels like the audience’s intelligence has been questioned.

I’ve never been a fan of Timothy Olyphant’s acting (Hitman was where it all started for me), but he wasn’t a distraction here. He did a decent job, as did the rest of the cast. Kiele Sanchez, the Puerto Rican actress, was a pleasant screen presence, and Zahn cast a shadow of irritation throughout the film.

All in all, ‘A Perfect Getaway’ is a silly, fun time at the movies that won’t leave you bored. Just expect to figure everything out quickly and witness some dumb moments that’ll leave you scratching your head.