Case 39

Solid picture. Case 39 will surely be compared to Orphan, but it’s more horror, more B-movie, and also weaker. The main problem is that whereas Orphan had the likeable Vera Farmiga and the demonic performance of Isabelle Fuhram, in Case 39 Renée Zellweger is likeable only alternately (really, my feelings for the heroine changed every five minutes) and Jodelle Ferland is very unconvincing. Alvarta does show some talent, but he still has a lot to improve. I have mixed feelings due to several moments that disrupt an otherwise proper horror experience and they appear with ironclad regularity throughout the film. I’d really love to know what happened in the three years that passed since the film was made, because the trailers have a pretty interesting scene that never appears in it, and also a couple of scenes that I don’t think belong there, considering the plot. (29.12.2009)

From the fetid swamp of today's wannabe suspenseful, awkward and predictable horror films, this psychological thriller undoubtedly stands out. Orphan, made in the same year, is formally and narratively more interesting and daring, but the mysterious black-haired girl has something to offer here, too. It’s true that from the middle onwards we only wait for the slightly predictable climax, but on the other hand, the very simple script is perfectly supported by the impressive atmosphere of evil and supernatural that runs through the whole film together with the main character. It's a pity they didn't cast another actress, because I just don't like Renée Zellweger, and I don't like her dumb face in any serious film. Overall satisfaction, but if I gave the aforementioned Orphan 4*, justice calls for 3* here... (19.07.2012)