It is always interesting when Robin Williams strays outside the space in which he is most effective (or not, as some may argue).
As in "Insomnia" and "One Hour Photo", his character here is more complex. Williams plays an acclaimed writer, Gabriel No one, who has also parlayed his writing into a successful late night radio show.
Williams' troubles start when an avid fan makes contact with him during a slump period in his career and personal life. The fan is a boy with a terminal condition who starts sharing stories of the terrible abuse he suffered while growing up.
As the relationship deepens, a more sinister aspect emerges, and the movie shifts into a mystery mode.
The problem is that the pace is too slow, and it becomes clear too early in the plot what is going on. The story also fails to build interest or anxiety especially around the imperilment of Williams' character.
And that's ultimately a casting problem, because in concept there's actually nothing wrong.
As in "Insomnia" and "One Hour Photo", his character here is more complex. Williams plays an acclaimed writer, Gabriel No one, who has also parlayed his writing into a successful late night radio show.
Williams' troubles start when an avid fan makes contact with him during a slump period in his career and personal life. The fan is a boy with a terminal condition who starts sharing stories of the terrible abuse he suffered while growing up.
As the relationship deepens, a more sinister aspect emerges, and the movie shifts into a mystery mode.
The problem is that the pace is too slow, and it becomes clear too early in the plot what is going on. The story also fails to build interest or anxiety especially around the imperilment of Williams' character.
And that's ultimately a casting problem, because in concept there's actually nothing wrong.