The Ticking Man

An often too talkative script. Characters behave in absurd ways.

Some actors practice some grimaces which I found downright disagreeable. Frankly, most of the actors look like amateurs.

The film does not decide whether it is suspense or a comedy of errors. Neither work too well.

If there is a likable character I haven't spotted it. I couldn't care about the fate of any of them. After a few minutes I began rooting for the killer, who paradoxically is the only character I found flawless (though, to be sincere, this contract killer could be a bit more efficient).

With the exception of the basic idea of the plot (which wasn't bad) I can't point to any redeeming element in this mediocre film.

This movie depicts values and reactions of people living in a country which has had strict Gun Laws for 600 years. Apart from the odd shot gun most people have never seen a real gun or a cross bow and have no idea even how to use one. The police are not armed and except in inner city areas are not even trained in their use.They do not have more than a simple 2 way radio in their cars at most. In such an area I can assure the American viewer people do not ever lock their doors. The local Policeman would have no experience of violent crime other than a drunken punch up in a local bar. This is a true to life action/thriller, If you prefer non-reality fantasies you should stick to watching Hollywood Movies. The film has some very interesting artistic camera work and appears to be almost entirely 16 mm steady cam work which if true is all the more remarkable. The actors are not big time stars but as I once lived in such an area where this was filmed were surprisingly real down to small details only an insider would notice. Unlike the majority of Popular Movies it is really difficult to do more than knit pick this film.

Saw Ticking man at the 2003 edition of the Montreal film festival and loved it. What a surprise!

It's exciting, thrilling and literally has you on the edge of your seat the entire time. Cinematography is impressive; love the way Simpson used the features of digital technology.

The result is a unique and refreshing thriller that will have your adrelin pumped up. Would definitly see it again if it's released here!

I saw this movie as part of the 2003 Montreal World Film Fest, and I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised. A thriller/action movie:

My only reserve was for the pace at the beginning, but after a little while it starts to pick up really rapidly. There's quite a bit of cold-blooded killing (or should as say, unapologetic?): the `good' guys don't all come out unscathed, as is the usual tradition. I believe the whole movie was shot in digital - interesting use of split screen effects (last used in the movie `Timecode', if I remember correctly) and other edits. Good photography (opening scene notably), and a great, driving soundtrack to accompany the action. Actors were good and convincing (keeping in mind this is not Hamlet).

The last part of the movie is almost exempt of dialogue - and features a great, heart-racing chase scene (of the non-car-crashing-exploding kind, thank you).

Cool feature: I liked the crossbow being used in the action. when was the last time you saw one used in a movie (set in modern times)?

So in the end, it's good to know that you don't need bullet-time and multi-gazillions of dollars to make an exciting thriller. Plus, it's shot in Scotland. (Check out the scenery!)

Hoping it gets released here!

I saw this film at the Montreal Film festival, and it was screened I think early Sunday Morning on the last day of the festival. I had seen my fair share of films during the week, this was a surprised "cadeau".

I only went because it was a British film,although Mr Simpson the Director insists to call it a Scottish film. But the film doesn't require subtitles like a recent "Scottish Film"I saw.

The film is exciting, my palms of my hands were wet. I would buy the soundtrack if it was available.

Ticking Man, can and will be a hugh hit if gets distributed. My only criticism was the classical ending