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Tangled

Yet more proof that Rachael Leigh Cook cannot act, "Tangled" is another entry into the teen thriller genre that didn't deserve it's direct-to-video release in the slightest (thank God we were spared a theatrical run). The story is an amalgam of absurd subplots involving lust, betrayal, and revenge among three college students, one of whom is Cook's Jenny, who catches the attention of potential suitors David (Shawn Hatosy) and Alan (Jonathan Rhys-Meyers). As told in retrospect bay David to a police detective played by Lorraine Bracco (what was she thinking?), we get all the backstory that led up to their hospitalization in painful detail. ***

It's not that "Tangled" wouldn't have made a bad movie: the screenplay by Jeffrey Lieber isn't as terrible as its execution from director Jay Lowi, who caters to an audience of the lowest possible intelligence by exacting upon them thousands upon thousands of teen movie cliches and ridiculous acting on the part of the three leads. Instead of building suspense, Lowi is building aggravation; once it's all over, you'll readily agree never to get tangled up in this mess again.

A rather nice transfer for direct-to-video, actually. The 1.85:1 image is nicely rendered in terms of contrast and shadow detail, with solid blacks throughout. Colors are nicely saturated with no bleeding, though fleshtones tend to take on an overly red appearance that is bothersome. Edges are sharp with no signs of enhancement artifacts, and despite the presence of film noise, the picture is overall a pleasure. ***

The Dolby Digital 5.1 track is also very good. Using most of the noise tactics of thrillers these days, the track is very aggressive in places, especially during the more energetic scenes. Surround usage varies from minimal to outstanding, while deep bass can be plentiful given the right moment. Dialogue sounds clean and natural throughout.