Synopsis: The unearthing of a time capsule at an elementary school in Knowing leads to the discovery of a document that predicts catastrophic events; many of which have already occurred and some that soon will.
Release Date: March 20, 2009 MPAA Rating: PG-13
Genre(s): Apocalyptic, Mystery
Film Review
Production
As an apocalyptic thriller, Knowing could have been excellent but the added science fiction and horror angles detract from the story and take it too far into “alien” territory. If you can get through the short and forgettable scenes that take it there you will be entertained by a great mystery. One that delves into science and theology and the eternal conflict of man vs. nature.
Special Effects
There may not be a large number of special effects in Knowing but when they are employed they are surely unforgettable. From a plane crash that is documented with such detail and precision you feel like you are the main character; surveying the event and the catastrophic damage it creates. To reveal any more would be to ruin the actual moments of awe they will inspire in you as an audience member. You must brace yourself for the ending though as it is one of the most amazing and superbly done effects ever seen on film. It will not only take your breath away but also ignite a sense of wonderment at just what computer-generated special effects can achieve on screen. It is absolutely stunning.
Directing
There is not much to say on either end, good or bad, about the directing in Knowing. One decision that must be mentioned and applauded is the use of the first person point of view for the subway crash. It was absolutely incredible and a welcome change. You are in the moment, you are the subway train, and you are out of control. The choice to create this scene this way was invaluable to the viewer experience. It completely changes the voyeur element of the cinematic experience. No longer just a mere watcher, the viewer becomes a part of the experience and part of the tragic ride that those on screen are experiencing. One can only really appreciate it by seeing it; if only it lasted longer than mere seconds.
Sound
During the special effects sequences of Knowing, the sound is unbelievable. Coming at you from all sides and awakening every sense you have you feel the impact of the varying noises throughout your body. The strength is so strong you can feel your seat rumbling and your heart races with the sheer impact of how incredible the mixing of the final sound product is with the moving picture.
Cast and Crew
- Director(s): Alex ProyasSteve Tisch
- Screenwriter(s): Ryne Pearson
- Cast: Nicolas Cage (John Koestler), Chandler Canterbury (Caleb Koestler), Rose Byrne (Diana Koestler), D.G. Maloney (The Stranger)
- Music Score: Marco Beltrami
- Country Of Origin: USA
