Into Temptation

The premise of the movie was interesting. Will he be able to reach her? Can he stop her? But a ton of the scenes stuck me as filler, with little dramatic import. The subplot of the priest's "temptation" turned out to be, simply, empty. His looking at the magazines had no discernible effect on him. The ex-girlfriend's approaches were easily diverted. He doesn't seem to have been "into temptation" after all. When the girlfriend apologized and talked as if she was not going to bother him any more, I wondered, "So what was all that about then?" Just a little subplot to fill the time. Was he really looking at the prostitute's cleavage or just at her necklace? The ending with the prostitute also seemed a bit of a cheat.

The conversations between the priest and his black parishioner seemed very odd, where the parishioner was playing the role of counsellor to the priest.

Two stars out of five.

It's hard for me to categorize this movie; it's unlike most films although it has elements of mystery, drama, comedy, tragedy and angst. The story revolves around a priest who is attempting to locate a confessor in the Minneapolis underworld while simultaneously confronting some of his personal demons but it is not nearly as trite as that sounds, the whole presentation feels remarkably unique and fresh. It does not present itself like a major studio treatment nor like the usual independent effort.

All aspects of the film's production are convincing and very assured. While most of the plot's elements have been explored elsewhere, this particular combination of excellent screenplay and considerable talent is somewhat like being exposed to an entirely new cuisine - and a welcome change that is. It is clever, poignant, buoyant, gritty and witty but it is not your normal fare.

Try it, you might like it.

Into Temptation (2009)

This is a religious film, really, in street clothes. And in the end it's about how being good is really good.

It's also a lesson in how you have to bend the rules to actually do the right thing--even if you fail. And that sometimes you do the right thing and succeed--without even knowing it.

Clearly a low budget movie, and a fairly simple one, in filmmaking terms (the sets, the light, the presence of the camera, the side characterizations, and the music, all these key elements, are unremarkable). But the plot itself, with its twists, is enough to make you at least curious. Yes, you wonder why it has to go tawdry at times, why there has to be some sexed up stuff for the viewer (it doesn't advance the plot, in the one egregious case). And there is a tidy solution to the central problem that will seem cheap to nonbelievers and magical to believers.

Most of all is a great performance by the lead, the priest, played by Jeremy Sisto. I knew him best from his role as Billy in Six Feet Under, and loved him there, and he is if anything more subtle and interesting (if less outrageous) here. It's a careful, felt performance in a movie that should have supported him better. Other aspects may jump out. His ex-girlfriend, whatever her role, is utterly believable, as much as the prostitute in question is not. The other priest is a caricature who overplays his part but has some great dialog with Sisto. There is the key flashback, which adds yet another layer of meaning, of cause and effect, and though it moved me somehow, I felt manipulated by it, and it was another case where the movie showed its seams.

So it may try too hard and strain within its resources (and with the director's reach--he has one other film to his credit, and famous as the voice in a Hamburger Helper t.v. ad), but it has moments that are right on. With Sisto's help. For those inclined toward religious sentimentality.

What an amazing film. The exchange on the bridge made my year! Chenoweth is masterful. She plays the role with subtlety, The character is heroic and leaves the bridge scene with hope. Would love another movie watching her life in the future. At least i feel the movie makes you want to examine your own life and live it motivated to be kind wherever and whenever possible. I would love to think that Linda could see her childhood picture on the table in John's home and know that she was not forgotten and not alone. Her life brings meaning to John and reinvigorates his mission in life. She saves him.

This indie drama mystery film is a hidden gem with outstanding acting performances. While there are a few cheesy moments involving the taxicab driver and the pimp scene, the overall quality of the movie makes it worth watching. Plus, it's fun to see it set in Minneapolis-I even recognized the gold building from my visits downtown!

It's also refreshing to see Jeremy Sisto take on a role outside his usual characters. Kristen Chenoweth makes a surprising appearance, adding to the film's charm. Brian Baumgartner brings some unexpected comedy and impressive acting to the mix. The film also has a bit of a noir feeling, which adds to its unique appeal. I highly recommend giving it a go!