Mr. Brooks

Kevin Costner has done some great film roles. As the soldier who lives among Native Americans in Dances with Wolves, Costner was convincing and genuine. He was even better, in my mind, as the farmer/dreamer who builds a stadium in Field of Dreams. And he was fantastic as Wyatt Earp. This reviewer is a Costner fan.

The talented actor does a wonderful job of being a spooky killer in Mr. Brooks. Without spoiling the film for those who have not seen it, I can reveal the basic plot. Mr. Brooks is a very successful businessman, a civic leader, a devoted spouse, and a loving father. He's got just one little flaw: he can't seem to stop killing people!

The fun of this flick is in the protagonist's alter-ego: he has regular dialogs with his killer self, played brilliantly by William Hurt. Poor Mr. Brooks really wants to stop murdering random folks...but his fictitious other self makes him do it. Ah, how difficult it is for the fine citizen to counter the blood-thirsty longings of his fantasy pal!

Now add to this strange situation a daughter who, it seems, might have inherited that little murder gene from her dear dad. Oh my, how complicated life can get for decent families to get along in the world without succumbing to their needs to kill others!

This very BLACK thriller is a must see. Lots of tension. Some suspension of disbelief required, of course. But not to be missed.

Grade of A-. A few flaws but super entertainment.