Rating of
3/4
The Box (2009) review
Daniel Corleone - wrote on 10/06/12
Richard Kelly is a poorman's version of Cronenberg and Lynch. Better than the odd Southland Tales but inferior to the brilliance of Donnie Darko. A respectable mystery mixed with horror and sci-fi elements. Norma (Cameron Diaz) and Arthur Lewis (James Marsden) receive a mysterious box on their doorstep. Steward (Frank Langella) explains about the nature of the box and makes an offer with a condition. Deaths occur and unresolved while the couple experience a different result after attaining one million dollars. Pace somewhat dragged towards the middle and the employers were never revealed. Cameron Diaz shows some dexterity with her acting here since it was heartfelt and authentic. The director always has a message but sometimes presented in a confusing or dull manner. Screenplay was good with lines: Arlington Steward - "There are always consequences." and "There are 2 ways to enter the final chamber; free or not free, the choice is ours." If watched intently, The Box represents countless meanings such as the box symbolized (house, a car is a box with 4 wheels, death, etc.), making choices, moral dillema's, being boxed in employment and sacrifices for the greater good.
