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K-Pax (2001) Universal Pictures
2 hrs.
Starring: Jeff Bridges, Kevin Spacey and Mary McCormack.
Directed by: Iain Softley



K-Pax

Rating:

  E-MAIL GIANCARLO DE LISI

Photo: Universal Pictures


Although it does not attain the emotional punch it was attempting, ‘K-Pax’ still is an enduring and thought provoking film. Kevin Spacey plays Prot, an extra-terrestrial who lands on outer space to report the findings on earth. Deemed a delusional, he lands under the care of Psychiatrist Dr. Mark Powell where our journey begins to uncover whether he really is or is not a being from another planet.

While on Earth, Prot affects the beings he surrounds and fills them with hope and glory. This is of course conventional in nature in order for the audience to sympathize with this mysterious and interesting character. And it works, the viewer will sympathize with Prot and the film does a fair job of bringing the viewer into the psychosis of Jeff Bridges’ character. If one has followed the career of Jeff Bridges, one knows that no one can play someone as obsessed with the truth as Bridges can (Note: ‘Arlington Road’, ‘Fearless’).

Director Iain Softley paints a soothing and enchanting first half of the film as we discover the intelligence of our alien as he encompasses those around him with hope and wonder. The second act of the film is not at all soothing; plot breakthroughs or misdirection occur - depending on how you see it. Bridges’ character places Prot under hypnosis and the pieces of the puzzle come together. While these pieces are interpretive and questionable, it is clear that that Softley wants to divide the audience in their view of this whimsical situation.

The film is good looking and holds the viewer’s attention despite it centrally occurring between our two characters. Yet, while it isn’t the best of pictures, it certainly will captivate and hold the curiosity of the viewer for the duration of the film.

Based on the Gene Brewer novel, the film contains a mystical score by Edward Shearmur that runs throughout the film that reminds us exactly if we are aware of the topics that are being tackled. Is it about redemption? Hope? Salvation? Furthermore, symbolism has rarely been this apparent as a ray of light is photographed from different angles attempting different interpretations of the truth. All these concepts are observed in this film and no one single solid solution can be deduced with its’ interpretive ending.

The film’s delicate tone and fragile handling will allow for it to be a gentle watch. Do not expect frantic twists of mayhem to ensue. It simply is an entertaining little film that is simply made better by great performances by Jeff Bridges and Kevin Spacey. As the pieces come together in the second hour, so will one’s opinion of the film as many will be divided on the outcome of the plot and of the outcome of the film’s overall enjoyment.

Click here to comment on this review or post your own thoughts.

Giancarlo De Lisi
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