Limitless--A movie review

It’s never easy to be released the same weekend as something like DIARY OF A WIMPY KID; RODRICK RULES, so it’s not surprising that LIMITLESS has only netted a paltry $9+ mil after three weeks at the box office while HOP earned nearly $40 in its opening week. But don't let the numbers keep you out of the theater. I really liked this movie, and I don't like anything.

I usually go to the movies for the popcorn, but I actually anticipated LIMITLESS. Any time they make a movie about a writer staring at a blinking cursor and willing to do anything to write his book, they've got my attention. This one did not disappoint.

About the movie:
"Aspiring author Eddie Morra is suffering from chronic writer's block, but his life changes instantly when an old friend introduces him to NZT, a revolutionary new pharmaceutical that allows him to tap his full potential.
With every synapse crackling, Eddie can recall everything he has ever read, seen or heard, learn any language in a day, comprehend complex equations and beguile anyone he meets - as long as he keeps taking the untested drug. Soon Eddie takes Wall Street by storm, parlaying a small stake into millions. His accomplishments catch the eye of mega-mogul Carl Van Loon, who invites him to help broker the largest merger in corporate history. But they also bring Eddie to the attention of people willing to do anything to get their hands on his stash of NZT.
With his life in jeopardy and the drug's brutal side effects taking their toll, Eddie dodges mysterious stalkers, a vicious gangster and an intense police investigation as he attempts to hang on to his dwindling supply long enough to outwit his enemies."

Fast paced and exciting, I was immediately drawn into the story. In my opinion, graphics and cinematography are usually indicators of a weak storyline. Not so in this case. The cinematography added to the story and helped build excitement and suspense.

The story had a few holes that challenged my patience as a writer. Like when unknown writer Eddie gets a contract along with a hefty advance after not having written a word of his book. Doesn't happen, folks. Or when he borrows money from a thug and forgets to pay it back. Duh! (You're supposed to be smart, Eddie.)

I doubt the movie wouldn't have been as interesting if the writers hadn't taken a little creative license. So I won't nitpick. The movie was fun, exhilarating, interesting, and contained nothing so offensive that I couldn't sit there throughout. The plot is a little tricky to follow so I wouldn't recommend it for anyone under 14. There are also a few graphic scenes not appropriate for younger viewers.

Overall, a good story, fast paced plot, and twist ending that has you discussing it when you leave the theater, and wondering what you might've missed. If you've seen LIMITLESS, chime in and let me know what you thought (without giving away the story, of course). If you haven't seen it yet, I suggest you do.

A nice way to spend a rainy Saturday afternoon with a bottomless bag of hot buttered popcorn.
Teresa Slack
www.teresaslack.com