Movie: The Number 23
Starring: Jim Carrey and Virginia Madsen
Directed by: Joel Schumacher
My Critique: *1/2
In The Number 23, Jim Carrey stars as Walter Sparrow, a typical father and husband who goes mad over the number 23. Carrey, who starred in various comedies such as, Dumb and Dumber and Bruce Almighty, gives a much different performance in this thriller. I believe his character evolution started with Eternal Sunshine back in 2004, a terrific film but here, in 23, his character definitely does not suit him and does not work.
Furthermore, the film is entirely forgettable, except for a few bits and pieces that are somewhat entertaining. The entertaining aspect of the film are all of the number 23's that are hidden in each scene (23 steps in a particular stairwell or an address that equaled 23); otherwise, the film is lame, boring, and painfully over the top.
On a positive note, the filming is terrific, and the opening credits show all the historical events that equal 23 (such as, Sept 11, 2001= 9+11+2+0+0+1=23), but it is unfortunate they didn't use more of those in the movie that we could relate to. The frightening 'coincidences' Wally comes across are fictional so we can't say, "Wow, that is creepy!" On top of that the film is not creepy, partially because Jim Carrey is not persuasive enough in his role.
I went to see this movie on behalf of others and I guess I craved a scare or two, but I would be surprised if people came up to me and said, "It was totally wicked and scary!" It just wasn't that good for any audience. I will compliment the director for attempting to put a new theory into the books, but The Number 23 fails to wow us and make us ask, "Is the number 23, really a cursed number?"
Finally, I must state that the ending drags on like no other; I wanted to shut my eyes and have some beauty sleep.
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