Fallen

Dir Gregory Hoblit

Denzel Washington, John Goodman, Donald Sutherland, James Gandolfini, Embeth Davidz, Elias Koteas.

After finally seeing a mass murderer executed, Det John Hobbes (Washington) discovers that the soul of the killer is now travelling from person to person taunting him; and soon that the ‘soul’ might in fact be an ancient being that has been killing for generations. Can he stop it once and for all?

Fairly solid late 90s thriller, with Washington delivering (as always) as the cop who won’t quit. Joined by several strong players like Goodman and (the recently late Sutherland) as his partner and boss. Gandolfini is a little underused, and if there was anything to really criticise would be the lack of any strong female characters. Davidz is given little to do as the daughter of a former detective, who once chased the same ‘killer’.

There is some interesting direction and camera work, especially when the spirit known as ‘Azazel’ travels from person to person. The scene where Azazel travels from person to person is done well, not just with some of the camera work – with the dream like shots, but the quick shots as Azazel escapes.

The non traditional third act and how the film ends is also a plus.

3/5