Cell (2016) – Movie Review
Introduction
“Cell” is a 2016 horror-thriller film directed by Tod Williams, based on the novel of the same name by Stephen King. The film stars John Cusack, Samuel L. Jackson, and Isabelle Fuhrman. Combining elements of psychological horror and apocalyptic fiction, “Cell” explores the aftermath of a mysterious signal that causes people to turn into violent, zombie-like creatures. This review examines the film’s plot, performances, and overall impact, as well as where to watch it in the United States.
Plot Summary
The film begins with a terrifying event known as “The Pulse,” a mysterious signal transmitted through cell phones that causes the population to lose their sanity and turn into violent, aggressive zombies. The protagonist, Clay Riddell (John Cusack), is a graphic novel artist who is separated from his wife and son during the chaos.
As Clay searches for his family, he teams up with Tom McCourt (Samuel L. Jackson), a former college professor, and a young woman named Alice (Isabelle Fuhrman). Together, they navigate a world overrun by the infected and attempt to find a safe haven. Their journey is fraught with peril as they encounter both the dangerous infected and other survivors who have become desperate and ruthless.
Performances
John Cusack delivers a solid performance as Clay Riddell, capturing the character’s desperation and determination to find his family. Cusack’s portrayal adds a personal touch to the film’s apocalyptic narrative, providing an emotional anchor for the story.
Samuel L. Jackson brings his usual charisma and intensity to the role of Tom McCourt. His character serves as a mentor and protector, and Jackson’s dynamic performance adds depth to the film’s interpersonal relationships.
Isabelle Fuhrman, as Alice, contributes a youthful and resilient presence. Her performance is earnest, though her character’s development is somewhat limited by the film’s pacing and plot structure.
Visual Style and Effects
“Cell” utilizes a combination of practical effects and CGI to create its apocalyptic and horror elements. The film’s depiction of the infected is designed to be both unsettling and grotesque, using visual effects to enhance the horror experience.
The cinematography by Michael Simmonds captures the desolate and chaotic atmosphere of a world in collapse. The film’s visual style emphasizes the bleakness of the setting and the terror of the infected, although some scenes may feel derivative of other films in the genre.
Reception and Legacy
“Cell” received mixed to negative reviews from critics and audiences. While some appreciated the film’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel and its effort to deliver suspense and horror, others found it lacking in coherence and originality. The film’s pacing and plot were often cited as weaknesses, with some critics noting that it struggled to fully capitalize on its intriguing premise.
Despite its reception, “Cell” holds appeal for fans of Stephen King’s work and those interested in apocalyptic horror. Its adaptation of King’s novel offers a familiar blend of psychological tension and supernatural elements, though it may not stand out as a standout entry in the genre.
Streaming and Purchase Options in the U.S.
For those interested in watching “Cell,” several streaming and purchase options are available in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video: Available for rental or purchase.
- Apple iTunes: Available for rental or purchase.
- Google Play Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
- Vudu: Available for rental or purchase.
- YouTube Movies: Available for rental or purchase.
- Hulu: Occasionally available as part of the streaming catalog (check availability).
Conclusion
“Cell” presents a chilling vision of an apocalyptic world plagued by a mysterious signal that turns people into violent creatures. While the film’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel provides a suspenseful and unsettling narrative, it may not fully satisfy fans seeking a standout horror experience. John Cusack and Samuel L. Jackson deliver strong performances, and the film’s visual style effectively captures the horror elements. However, its mixed reception highlights the challenges of translating a popular novel into a cinematic experience.
