Preston Tylk

As far as such "psychological" whodunits go, this one had an OK story-line based on a realistic premise. Unfortunately, the acting was poor, and here I am particularly referring to Luke Wilson in the main role of Preston. He was never really convincing as the "cheated husband" out to avenge both his wife's murder AND the fact that he was cheated in the first place. He tried too hard, as I think someone else also pointed out in a previous comment. Dennis Farina was fair enough in his role as the private Dick (though clearly stereotyped), and overall I liked the way Norman Reedus played the Jonathan character (despite cozing up with somebody else's wife, he turned out to be not exactly a 100 per cent nasty person but actually an interesting character study in himself). Although having said that, there were a couple of things he did over the top ... like setting himself on fire, and walking around with the crucial video-tape in his pocket all along(!)

I picked up this film on DVD titled as Bad Seed, because I was in the mood for a mystery and the fact that Luke Wilson and Dennis Farina starred in it.

At first, I found things to be a bit standard as far as "thrillers" go, almost on the level of a basic TV movie. But something really starts to draw the viewer in and by watching through to the end, there is really a nice payoff.

Don't try to compare this to Hitchcock, just sit back and let the story unfold. When Preston (Luke Wilson) hears his wife confess to having an affair, he storms out to a cafe and when he comes back home he finds her dead. By trying to confront her lover Jonathan (Norman Reedus), things get way out of control, even hiring a private detective (Dennis Farina) proves to make a messy situation even worse. It's easy to say these guys do a LOT of stupid, stupid things (like busting up a motel room) and one would think that in reality no one would make such bad decisions, but I took into consideration that people really act in the strangest ways when confronted with a situation that's extraordinary and no time to really think things through. Preston has his flaws, but he's really an okay guy, as is Jonathan. By appreciating the quiet desperation and increasing tension between them, along with the effective rainy locations in Tacoma and Seattle, the film is somber yet tense.

I actually love grey, rainy landscapes -- to me they're calming instead of gloomy. But considering the sadness in Preston's life and both he and Jonathan (as well as the detective) knowing that no matter what they do it's going to end rather messy, the wet greys of the sky and deep greens of the Northwest accent the film in a very melancholic way. The score is beautiful in many scenes, and rather grand for a film of this type made today (particularly one with such a low budget). Actually, the dramatic cues seemed a bit too grand in places, but it reminded me of how mysteries and thrillers back in the 1970s used to have full orchestral scores instead of everything being done on an electronic keyboard. Some very nice piano work, wish I had a soundtrack recording of it.

I know that some would just get fed up with these characters' behavior and think that the film just going to have a typical knock-down, drag-out fight to end it all, but I for one was pleasantly surprised to see the way the story took a turn and threw in a twist here and there. Even the ending seemed just right (even if it gives you a Shawshank Redemption deja vu moment). I felt a little sad yet satisfied by the turn of events, as is how I truly think the ending is supposed to affect you. After listening to the audio commentary on the DVD, you may also appreciate more what writer/director Jon Bokenkamp was trying to accomplish.

Not a perfect film, but by no means a misfire. I found Preston Tylk/Bad Seed to be a nice diversion from the common Hollywood "thriller" and would recommend it for those not wanting grandiose style and wanting a dramatic tale, something just right to watch with some snacks on a night at home, relaxing.

I am not sure why Luke Wilson chose to star in this film. He does an okay job. He looks tormented at the required points and hurt at others. As for Norman Reedus he plays "creepy" well and I found it nice to see him in such a part even though it is similar to his character in the movie Gossip. I think it's better to see another Wilson film than this one. Try Bottle Rocket or Home Fries. Overall, this movie was just okay. If anything see it for some nice Dennis Farrina moments.

Others have suggested that the viewer not compare the direction of this movie to Alfred Hitchcock. However, the director selectively inserts H. Into this film in a very odd fashion. Strains of Bernard Hermann (Scottie/Vertigo) occasionally rise up. Our hero is occasionally presented as if he were a Hitchcock character, struggling with internal demons. As a result, I found myself imagining what the movie could have been if it had openly embraced Hitchcock.

This movie started out better and then it seemed to just go around in circles. I do not consider this movie a thriller. I lost interest and hour and just wanted it to end.