Source Code

“Source Code” proves to be a smart, original thriller that keeps the twists and turns coming making audiences want to go back into the “Source Code” again and again.

Captain Colter Stevens (Jake Gyllenhaal) wakes up on train. Most people wouldn’t find this unusual, however Colter does. He doesn’t know where he is, why he’s there or even why his reflection isn’t his reflection. Then it all blows up in his face, literally.

Colter wakes up in a different room, but he still has no idea what’s going on. He then discovers that he’s part of a program called the source code. Colter is able to live the last eight minutes of a man’s life in order to find a bomb and the person who planted it so he can prevent another attack. So he re-lives the eight minutes on the train over and over receiving more and more clues and starts a relationship with one of the passengers, Christina (Michelle Monaghan)

“Source Code” provides audiences with a gripping thriller. It always keeps audiences guessing on who did it, but more than that it keeps audiences guessing on what will happen to Colter and Christina. Each time in the source code Colter as well as the audience learns more and more that help both the audience and the character figure out what is going on.

The entire cast gives a solid performance but Gyllenhaal provides a strong foundation for the central character which helps to tie down the supporting actors as well as the plot. Gyllenhaal is also able to give his character lots of emotion as he tries to decipher the clues. Along with that he also tries to remember and learn what happen to him and why he is in the source code. Gyllenhaal portrays Colter’s drive for understanding with realism helping the audience to sympathize with the character.

As a supporting role, Monaghan gives support to Colter even though she doesn’t understand. Goodwin (Vera Farmiga) one of the people in charge of the source code also gives a solid performance as an unyielding Army official.

“Source Code” also contains incredible visuals as Colter enters and exits the source code. Images of clues and memories flash across the screen, making audiences feel that they are entering the source code with Colter. The visuals used for when the bomb explodes are also realistic as well as painful looking.

The score (written by Chris P. Bacon) for “Source Code” adds to the intensity of the film. It sounds almost spyish at times and it crescendos when moments becomes climatic. However, it also calms down during the tender moments of the film.

I could add more paragraphs explaining more reasons why “Source Code” is so good, but if I did it would ruin it. Besides it’ll be better if you just go out and see if for yourself. I’ll end with this, “Source Code” is a mesmerizing film with a plot that will constantly have you asking question. The acting by Gyllenhaal is an authentic portrayal of a desperate man seeking answers. Visuals and music also add to make this film a captivating story that shouldn’t be missed.