Lionsgate
Reclaim falls into that netherworld where movies often go to die…it’s not quite straight-to-DVD fodder, yet nothing the average viewer would ever feel compelled to see on the big screen. It initially received the same simultaneous on-demand/limited theatrical release as most movies which aren’t likely to generate high expectations.
And indeed, despite its sensational subject matter, Reclaim is nothing special…a fairly predictable, low-rent thriller boasted somewhat by a fun performance by John Cusack in a rare villainous role, as well as some impressive cinematography. Still, if you keep your expectations in check, the movie is a reasonably entertaining way to kill 90 minutes.
Ryan Phillippe and Rachelle Lefevre are Steven & Shannon, a dull couple duped into adopting a Haitian girl, Nina (Briana Roy), by an agency which cons as much cash from prospective parents as possible before disappearing. Since they’ve grown attached to Nina - and the local government is pretty useless - this couple tries to find the girl on their own. Cusack is a sleazy opportunist who helps the agency suck parents into this ruse by absconding with the kid. He also wants to bilk Steven & Shannon of even more money, kidnapping them in hopes on draining their bank account. But he doesn’t count on their determination and resiliency to get their child back.
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Ryan and John argue over who gets to drive. Obviously, John wins. |
Still, despite its occasionally-ridiculous plot turns and stupid characters, Reclaim remains oddly watchable, mainly because we do feel a sense of urgency in Steven & Shannon’s attempts to get their child back. Sure, we’re never less-than-convinced everything will turn out hunky-dory, but like those shamelessly manipulative movies on Lifetime and the Hallmark Channel, Reclaim compels us to see the story through to the end.
EXTRAS:
- Director commentary
- Deleted/Extended scenes
- Featurettes: Behind the Scenes of Reclaim; cast & crew interviews
- Music video: “Fighting the World”
- Trailer
- Digital copy
FKMG RATING:
(OUT OF 5)
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