Whiteout (Warner Brothers)
Not A Total Wipeout
Whiteout is one of those movies that entertains but doesnt linger for long in your memory. It is a mystery that is set in Antarctica and that gives it a unique look. Plus it stars Kate Beckinsale, an actress who always makes her roles better than written. These factors help Whiteout stay away from being a total wipeout.
In the story US Marshall Carrie Stetkoe (Beckinsale) is ending up her tour of duty in Antarctica. In just a few days she will board a plane that will take her back to the states. Also leaving on that plane is her friend Doc Fury (Tom Skerritt). The next plane after this one will be in six months when the winter is over, so it is leave now or wait six months.
Just as she is getting packed there is a report of a body being found out on the ice. Carrie goes to investigate and gets caught up in a diabolical plot that causes several deaths. Luckily Carrie has the assistance of UN Investigator Robert Pryce (Gabriel Macht), but can she really trust him
As a winter storm closes in on them, and the long winter is set to begin, Carrie has to find a killer before he finds her. That is the crux of the film and the reason for the suspense. It is all a little predictable and hard to believe but watching Kate helps pass the time.
The film does make Kate almost superhuman. She is injured but it doesnt slow her down; she is up against men twice her size and weight but it doesnt slow her down. She is one US Marshall who is going to get her man.
Beckinsale is the star of the movie. Macht, Columbus Short and Alex OLoughlin could all play each others role and it would make no difference in their appeal. Skerritt does manage to stand out thanks to his age and silver hair.
The film is rated R for violence and profanity.
If you like a new locale for your murder mystery well the Antarctic is unique. And if you like a tough and beautiful heroine for your movies then Kate is your girl. Still it would have helped had the script been a bit more believable and if Kates character hadnt been such a superwoman.
As is, the movie is only enjoyable because of Kate and Antarctica. The rest of it could be wiped out by the whiteout and you wouldnt care.
I scored Whiteout a frigid 5 out of 10.
