Transsiberian: Review By The Lost Girl

Well, I have been waiting for this movie to arrive at Blockbuster ever since I read Rama's review. So of course when I saw they finally had it, I nabbed it. I was not disappointed.

Brad Anderson directed this. He also brought us an amazing film called The Machinist, with Christian Bale.

This movie tells the story of an American couple, Roy (Woody Harrelson, Natural Born Killers) and Jessie (Emily Mortimer, Matchpoint). These two have just finished some missionary work in Beijing, China, and are embarking on their long voyage home, via the Transsiberian, a train that runs from Beijing to Moscow.

Along the way, they get 2 cabin mates. A young couple - Carlos (Eduardo Noriega, The Devil's Backbone) and Abby (Kate Mara, Shooter). Abby is American, Carlos a Spaniard. Roy and Jessie befriend Carlos and Abby during the trip, and this is where trouble begins. Roy and Jessie are having issues in their marriage, and Carlos appears to be hitting on Jessie. We later find out exactly what Carlos and Abby are up to, and it spells trouble for Roy and especially Jessie.

Also in the film is Ben Kingsley as a Russian Narcotics Officer. I wish he had more screen time though, since he is one of the best actors around. However, he plays a pivotal role toward the end of the film.

The scenery in this is beautiful. The aerial shots of the train as it travels through the snowy country is spectacular, as well as the visuals during the stops along the way.

Wooody Harrelson plays a completely opposite role from Natural Born Killers, playing a husband who is fun-loving, goofy, and an all around good guy. Yet when he sees his wife is in trouble, he is able to turn the character into a man willing to do anything to protect his wife.

Emily Mortimer does a fine job as the wife who although good now, hasn't always been. She carries her emotions in her eyes and face, and is a completely believable actress. Her and Harrelson work well together. The same for Noriega and Mara.

All in all, a movie that had me interested from the start. I highly recommend this film if you are in the mood for a good drama.