Trance

If Danny Boyle is involved, I'll always be interested. And though Trance can be accused of being many things, I can never say boring was a word that came to mind.

James McAvoy plays Simon, an art auctioneer turned thief involved in a robbery gone wrong. In the process of stealing a highly coveted painting named "Witches in the Air", Simon is hit in the head, disabling any memories of where he put the painting. The other criminals involved in this plot, led by Vincent Cassell as Franck, are far from happy about Simon's recent memory loss and will do anything to help him recover where the painting in. This desperate time brings them to Elizabeth (Rosario Dawson), a hypnotist who might be the only hope in recovering this painting. What she brings to the table, her true intentions, and what Simon will remember are things that will take everyone for a spin.

Trance's visuals are a dream come true (pun intended). All of the scenes involving Simon's inner most thoughts look amazing, very reminiscient of Eternal Sunshine where there's almost an animated quality to the live action scenes you're viewing.

Though everyone gives a sturdy performance, once Rosario Dawson shows up, you won't be able to take your eyes off her. Her performance here is stunning. Every scene she keeps your mind going, your attention never drifts off and she really gives a strong base into her character. Her character is the best spell this movie will cast on you.

Unfortunately, Trance struggles in the execution. About halfway through, you know a big twist or two is coming. Which is really quite the understatement of the year. Trance takes so many spins and then more spins on those spins you feel like you're on Roger Rabbit's Wild Ride which is fun but also might make you queasy. Too many surprises and turns were added it feels like overkill. Trance is an unforgettable ride that might leave your brain in a permanent trance.

2/4