This is reportedly Steven Soderbergh’s last feature film, but I hope he changes his mind because Side Effects is a complex psychological thriller that satisfies audiences with a great story filled with plot twists and suspense.
Emily (Rooney Mara), is suffering from depression and anxiety. Her husband Martin (Channing Tatum), was recently released from prison after being caught for insider trading. After a suicide attempt, Emily begins seeing Dr. Banks (Jude Law), a psychiatrist who prescribes her a new antidepressant called Ablixa with the help of Emily’s former psychiatrist Dr. Seibert (Catherine Zeta-Jones). Ablixa begins giving Emily some side effects that cause erratic behavior.
Writer Scott Z. Burns, creates a Hitchcock-like thriller that grabs hold of audiences from the beginning to the end. Mara is the perfect actress for this role while Tatum and Law continue to deliver solid performances, which are amplified by Soderbergh’s visual style. Side Effects is just what the doctor ordered.
WORD COUNT: 155
Adam’s Grade: A-
Chuck’s Grade: N/A
