Eagle Eye is a conventional thriller that is tense, edgy and when put together with a strong cast, it can be considered solid entertainment. This movie hinges upon an incredible conceit that rapidly unfolds and challenges the viewer every chance it gets.
The basic story is a familiar one. A guy and a girl both receive phone calls blackmailing them into acting for a mysterious voice forcing them into situations that is completely out of character for them. They follow the directions they are given but all the while they are trying to figure out who is blackmailing them and why.
While there are plenty of white knuckle action sequences - gun fights, car chases and explosions by the fistful – the film is about the abuse of government powers and that idea is pretty damned scary. By the time the third act begins, the film has become a stunning, pulse pounding adventure which causes you to actively question whose side you’re supposed to be on. And even when the film is wrapped up you are still completely uncertain as to who should have won.
It is a film that wants the viewers to question the motives and ultimately decide for themselves what the true nature of patriotism is. While this is a politically minded film it is a film that is encouraging the viewers to openly discuss what may or not be wrong with the country.
Shia LaBeouf is excellent in the film, turning in an award winning, leading man performance and for the most part carries the movie. Which combines with the superb performances by Michelle Monaghan and Billy Bob Thornton, to make the movie a must see and causing the autograph and memorabilia shops to run out of their LaBeouf and Monaghan stock. As they seem to be the hot new autographs for collectors and fans alike.
One storeowner, Richard White of White Autographs has reported paying twice the price he paid just a few months ago for Shia LaBeouf, Michelle Monaghan, and Billy Bob Thornton autographs and memorabilia.
Eagle Eye is a very good thriller with a message that is clearly warning of dangers of technology and over-empowered governments.
