Directed by:
George SluizerScreenplay:
Todd GraffCinematography:
Peter SuschitzkyComposer:
Jerry GoldsmithCast:
Jeff Bridges, Kiefer Sutherland, Nancy Travis, Sandra Bullock, Park Overall, Lisa Eichhorn, Maggie Linderman, George Hearn, Stephen Bridgewater (more)Plots(1)
A young woman (Sandra Bullock) mysteriously disappears, sending her boyfriend Jeff (Kiefer Sutherland) on a years-long quest to find her. Not even a new love (Nancy Travis) can keep him from his obsessive search. All the while, the calculating psychopath (Jeff Bridges) who kidnapped his girlfriend stalks Jeff, ultimately taking him through the exact same steps that led to the crime. In order to find out what happened, Jeff must put his own life in the hands of this devious stranger. (official distributor synopsis)
(more)Reviews (4)
The Vanishing definitely has an interestingly conceived plot, which is developed through a decent screenplay that includes a few really intriguing moments. Moreover, it can certainly boast of having a good cast, with Kiefer Sutherland leading the way. However, if you don't quickly get used to Jeff Bridges' somewhat quirky expression, you might be a bit put off by it. The film also features excellent music by Jerry Goldsmith. Unfortunately, there is also poor direction here, which results in a lack of atmosphere, which this film should primarily rely on. Not once did I really care about what would happen to the characters and I was completely indifferent to the cruel fate of Jeff's girlfriend. Around halfway through, I lost interest in everything, and the highly praised ending felt like an incredibly "messed up," scene, an experience that can only be enjoyed by a true claustrophobic. I deeply hate the feeling of emptiness that came over me at the end of the film.
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This dark thriller is mainly driven by Jeff Bridges' performance, and for a movie fan, the presence of a young Sandra Bullock at a time when she was not yet a star is interesting. Although the screenplay is not among the best in the genre, the film does have a tense atmosphere and the villain's cynical demeanor captivates the audience. Overall impression: 60%.
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A relaxing thriller with the great Kiefer Sutherland. It relies heavily on the story, which luckily is well-thought out and gripping. I was a little disappointed with the Sluizer’s uninspiring directing, but on the other hand The Vanishing is accompanied by Jerry Goldsmith’s music of genius from start to finish.
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Definitely a great addition to the mysterious genre. Although it is not a very well-known film, it has a lot of excellent scenes and solid performances. The great atmosphere of pure despair and hopelessness, framed by intense, escalating tension with an uncompromising finale – only for strong-natured individuals. Claustrophobics stay away.
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