“Vacancy” (Sony Pictures)
Terror Checks In
“Vacancy” is somewhat similar to the old “Psycho” film but not as terrifying and not as shocking. What it does have is a pair of lead actors who win the audience over from the very start. You are pulling for Kate Beckinsale and Luke Wilson through every adversity they face, and that is a real plus for this movie.
David and Amy Fox (Wilson and Beckinsale) are a married couple who are on a trip. They get off the interstate and take a back road and that is when their troubles begin. Their car develops problems and it is in the wee hours of the morning. They end up checking into a seedy motel where the motel manager (Frank Whaley) is as bizarre acting as Anthony Perkins ever was.
Once in their room Dave discovers some old VHS tapes that show people being murdered. He makes the connection that these events took place in the very room in which he and Amy are staying. A cat and mouse game begins between the couple and a trio of assailants with the loser being killed.
This is the type of movie that places the emphasis on suspense rather than gore, and that’s a plus. Like “Disturbia” the thrills in the movie come from fear and dread rather than blood and guts.
There are some plotholes in the movie but nobody expects a film like this to make perfect sense. It is enough that the couple is in jeopardy and they are trying everything than can to escape. The audience is cheering them on and hoping against hope that they survive.
Wilson is his usual loveable self and that makes Dave a truly likeable hero. He is still a little klutzy and all too human but his attempts to save his mate are totally believable. Beckinsale is a true beauty and she makes Amy vulnerable yet strong. She is not the typical little woman as she uses her wit and her strength to try to save her own neck.
The film is rated R for profanity and violence.
“Vacancy” is not a classic like “Psycho” but it is an above average film that entertains as well as chills the audience. Wilson and Beckinsale are perfect casting for this duo in distress flick. Any less talented or less charming actors would have dragged the movie down.
I scored “Vacancy” a motel no tell 6 out of 10.
