The Box
Warner Bros. Pictures | Release Date: November 6, 2009
2.5
USER SCORE
Generally unfavorable reviews based on 279 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
44
Mixed:
53
Negative:
182
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
2
csw12Nov 26, 2015
"Disconnected mess" describes this confusing piece of garbage perfectly. The first 30 mins are promising and then it all falls apart. The only reason it gets a 1 is that there has to be a lower rating for movies like Christmas with the Kranks.
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
8
dominicrNov 10, 2009
I don't understand why everyone hates this so much! It's ambitious, complex and well acted (Frank Langella is great). The Box is like a good Twilight Episode, OK so it's not Solaris or Stalker (or even Donnie Darko) but I don't understand why everyone hates this so much! It's ambitious, complex and well acted (Frank Langella is great). The Box is like a good Twilight Episode, OK so it's not Solaris or Stalker (or even Donnie Darko) but it's better than a lot of the recent releases. Well worth the time.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
1
JoeS.Apr 27, 2010
"Disconnected mess" describes this confusing piece of garbage perfectly. The first 30 mins are promising and then it all falls apart. The only reason it gets a 1 is that there has to be a lower rating for movies like Christmas with the Kranks.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
4
GeorgeP.Apr 25, 2010
Fine to begin with, good premise and all, then a deterioration as the movie tackled too much, became involved with more details than it could manage, lost believability, became confusing. It left too much unanswered. A disappointment.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
1
BlackAlphaFeb 9, 2013
The trailer for this film made it look amazing but it left and lots to be desired It's more dire then Dani its like a rape on your mind is completely confusing and one of the worst film I have ever seen ever. The film of the box is aptlyThe trailer for this film made it look amazing but it left and lots to be desired It's more dire then Dani its like a rape on your mind is completely confusing and one of the worst film I have ever seen ever. The film of the box is aptly named Because Belongs 6 feet under the ground where nobody can find it ever again Warning this film may cause silicides… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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0
NathanielPrimeSep 12, 2019
This is the first and I hope only movie I ever see where I am not sure if it's intentionally pro-eugenics.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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4
Meth-dudeApr 12, 2018
While the original dilemma was interesting and the ending was entertaining, the rest of the movie was boring, dull and way too over the top for it's own good. Watch it if you think the premise is interesting and if you like the cast, butWhile the original dilemma was interesting and the ending was entertaining, the rest of the movie was boring, dull and way too over the top for it's own good. Watch it if you think the premise is interesting and if you like the cast, but don't expect too much.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
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1
AnarchyAusOct 26, 2015
I honestly could not believe that the person who made Donnie Darko also made this. So the film has a good opening 10 minutes, It sets up the characters and an interesting lot development. Then all of a sudden the films plot takes an absoluteI honestly could not believe that the person who made Donnie Darko also made this. So the film has a good opening 10 minutes, It sets up the characters and an interesting lot development. Then all of a sudden the films plot takes an absolute nose dive of stupidity into an enormous pile of **** and just when you think it couldn't get any worse the plot starts rolling around in **** back and forth with the appearance it is going somewhere but keeps stopping and going back the way it came never leaving the pile of **** it is entrenched in.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
8
HCorrellMar 20, 2011
This movie as not as bad as people make it out to be. I'll admit, there are some vaguely explained moments, unconvincing acting (thank you Cameron Diaz), an ending that leaves you unsatisfied, and some plot points that aren't tied together.This movie as not as bad as people make it out to be. I'll admit, there are some vaguely explained moments, unconvincing acting (thank you Cameron Diaz), an ending that leaves you unsatisfied, and some plot points that aren't tied together.
But for everything that is isn't, it's really good. It's creepy. It's thought provoking, and it achieves that purpose very well. If you're reading this review, you know the plot. If you don't know the plot, don't look it up; I feel like people who went into this movie expecting something came out the most unsatisfied. I bought my copy for around 4 bucks and it was very worth it.

-If you go into this movie with an open mind, you'll leave more satisfied and intrigued than not.
-If you enjoyed Donnie Darko, you'll enjoy this.
-If you're looking for something cheap, creepy, and thrilling, grab this.
-If you like twists and ambiguity, grab this.

-If you're looking for a blood and guts horror, look elsewhere.
-If you enjoyed Saw, you prob won't like this.
-If you enjoyed From Paris with Love, you prob won't like this.
-If you like a plot that's easy to follow, you prob won't like this.… Expand
5 of 7 users found this helpful52
All this user's reviews
8
Tss5078Feb 24, 2013
Wonderfully weird and imaginative. This is a sci-fi cult classic that fell under the radar, but it is a really great film. I heard a lot of people bash this thing, but this movie is about much more than a box and a button. If you're not aWonderfully weird and imaginative. This is a sci-fi cult classic that fell under the radar, but it is a really great film. I heard a lot of people bash this thing, but this movie is about much more than a box and a button. If you're not a sci-fi fan and not used to this type of film, it might be a bit confusing, but stay with it. I think it's well worth it.… Expand
2 of 3 users found this helpful21
All this user's reviews
4
eTurkeyApr 28, 2012
What starts off as a promising film to some extent slowly but surely begins to unravel itself from that decently tied knot after the first thirty minutes. After that, it's all downhill for 'The Box'. While the premise itself is somewhatWhat starts off as a promising film to some extent slowly but surely begins to unravel itself from that decently tied knot after the first thirty minutes. After that, it's all downhill for 'The Box'. While the premise itself is somewhat interesting (based on a 1970 short story titled "Button Button") the screenplay fails to maximise whatever potential the story might have had, instead decides to capitalize on a plot line that is incredibly far-fetched and never makes perfect sense. Regardless, I'm sure *some* fans of the psychological thriller genre will enjoy.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
3
DanDec 8, 2009
The only way this film could earn a positive review is if the viewer had never seen a Kubrick movie before. Shot for shot, the film steals from The Shining, Eyes Wide Shut, 2001 and even Dr. Strangelove. The plot is sci-fi nonsense The only way this film could earn a positive review is if the viewer had never seen a Kubrick movie before. Shot for shot, the film steals from The Shining, Eyes Wide Shut, 2001 and even Dr. Strangelove. The plot is sci-fi nonsense overstuffed with red herrings and padded out with imagery recycled from Donnie Darko. A real snooze.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful
0
makakusDec 5, 2010
This is the WORST MOVIE I HAVE EVER SEEN! MEANINGLESS, NO POINT OF VIEW WHATSOEVER, UNRELATED SCHENES AND MESSAGES AND CHARACTERS. TOTALLY WASTED MY TIME. SPENDING SO MUCH MONEY FOR B---T. THIS MOVE JUST BLUE IT! TOTAL FAILURE...

HORRIBLE!This is the WORST MOVIE I HAVE EVER SEEN! MEANINGLESS, NO POINT OF VIEW WHATSOEVER, UNRELATED SCHENES AND MESSAGES AND CHARACTERS. TOTALLY WASTED MY TIME. SPENDING SO MUCH MONEY FOR B---T. THIS MOVE JUST BLUE IT! TOTAL FAILURE...

HORRIBLE! NONSENSE...What is the meaning, the plot, the point? What is the movie teaching after all? What was the message of Arlington Stewart, after all? I don't get it! Absurd!… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
All this user's reviews
5
RayzorMooseNov 16, 2013
The Box pushes your buttons.
An extremely average execution of what possibly could have been a really exiting film. The premise is clever, and the acting is fine. The direction could use some serious help as the movie has a hard time gettingThe Box pushes your buttons.
An extremely average execution of what possibly could have been a really exiting film. The premise is clever, and the acting is fine. The direction could use some serious help as the movie has a hard time getting going. It feels like the characters are almost in limbo until finally everything happens very quickly. I would have liked to see Christopher Nolan or M. Night take a crack at this movie. The storytelling is simply poor.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
All this user's reviews
10
garbawnzoJul 22, 2011
This film started as a simple morality vehicle, but ended as a deeply religious and human narrative regarding not only morality, but original sin and pulls symbolism from the Garden of Eden to exhibit the fall of man from a very interestingThis film started as a simple morality vehicle, but ended as a deeply religious and human narrative regarding not only morality, but original sin and pulls symbolism from the Garden of Eden to exhibit the fall of man from a very interesting perspective. The acting was more or less unremarkable but the cinematography and audio are sublime. Do not be discouraged by the negative reviews. The only explanation that I can offer for low marks is that the reviewer wasn't expecting to see an actual film, and instead was expecting a cookie cutter sci-fi/horror summer blockbuster that is neither memorable nor engaging. If that's what you're after, enjoy saw 14. If you're looking for a narrative thriller with a little substance, check this one out.… Expand
2 of 18 users found this helpful216
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0
JeanB.Nov 7, 2009
This is the worst movie I have ever seen. Ever. DO NOT GO SEE THIS!!
0 of 2 users found this helpful
5
JTFeb 8, 2010
The first 3/4 of "The Box" is surprisingly entertaining and gripping. Sadly, the last portion of the film suffers from incomprehensible plot turns and reveals the characters to have little to no depth. There is also too much going on within The first 3/4 of "The Box" is surprisingly entertaining and gripping. Sadly, the last portion of the film suffers from incomprehensible plot turns and reveals the characters to have little to no depth. There is also too much going on within the story to conclude all subplots with a suitable ending.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
2
AdamHNov 9, 2009
Though it does stir some interesting ideas, "The Box" just has a preposterous plot, lazy pacing and in general just leaves the viewer saying "WTF" instead of creating a thinking movie worth thinking about. No, instead when you think about Though it does stir some interesting ideas, "The Box" just has a preposterous plot, lazy pacing and in general just leaves the viewer saying "WTF" instead of creating a thinking movie worth thinking about. No, instead when you think about the movie "The Box" it just creates more issues, and unresolved questions even murkier, if that's possible.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
10
RayFeb 24, 2010
The film's only a 6 really, but my god, what audaciousness, yet again, to cram so much goings-on into one little picture. Slow? Only if you like boring films going nowhere. It's silly at times, not well acted at other times -- but, The film's only a 6 really, but my god, what audaciousness, yet again, to cram so much goings-on into one little picture. Slow? Only if you like boring films going nowhere. It's silly at times, not well acted at other times -- but, also amazingly creative, billiantly shot and, most importantly, obviosuly the dedicated work of a film-making genius who dares to take movies into the sci-fi/horror rhelm...with a straight face and a holy heart.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
10
LarryDNov 14, 2009
How this is not at least a 60 on metacritic is beyond me. This is a spectacular film: brilliant cinematography, excellent screenwriting, amazing sets, and great acting. Moreover, the library scene is one that will go down as one of the most How this is not at least a 60 on metacritic is beyond me. This is a spectacular film: brilliant cinematography, excellent screenwriting, amazing sets, and great acting. Moreover, the library scene is one that will go down as one of the most unique and well executed scene in the history of American film. Much like Southland Tales, critics seem to AFRAID to give Kelly the accolades he deserves. For me, as a fan of his work, I think that he is one of the best film makers working in the United States today. What is sad is that our culture is to ignorant to recognize this. The box is a critique of American modernity and perhaps America is still not ready to reflect on the symptoms of sick society. An excellent film that I highly recommend. It's a thinker!… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
RyanM.Mar 16, 2010
Interesting idea and concept. And at times atmospheric, creepy and moody. But overall, poorly done. Done better overall, this would've been a great cult movie. Unfortunately, mismanaged and flawed throughout.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
1
CharlieB.May 15, 2010
Sucks, Cameron Diaz is OOOOOOLD,MY,GOD and she can't do drama. Down with the ship.t
0 of 1 users found this helpful
5
CaityBNov 10, 2009
This movie takes a cheeky idea very seriously. If you were offered a million dollars, how far would you go? In this economy? I'd go for double or nothing.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
6
thelordoffilmAug 17, 2010
The Box must be one of the most absurd movies I have seen for the year of 2009. I must admit itâ
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
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7
moviefreak12Dec 26, 2010
The box is a good/bad movie its plot is really weird and acting really sucks at times but its one of those movies that when startt watching it you have to see it to the end
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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5
JonnyFendiMar 1, 2012
Lewis family finds a box on the porch of their house. It is an ordinary box with a button. Later, mysterious old man comes to tell them how the box works. If they push the button, someone on somewhere will die, and they received one millionLewis family finds a box on the porch of their house. It is an ordinary box with a button. Later, mysterious old man comes to tell them how the box works. If they push the button, someone on somewhere will die, and they received one million dollars. They have 24 hours to decide. Norma and Arthur Lewis starred by Cameron Diaz and James Marsden. The mysterious old man played by Frank Langella, that we recently see him act impressively in FROST/NIXON (2008). The Director is Richard Kelly. The Director of DONNIE DARKO (2001) whose received many good reviews from movie critics. Personally, I did not enjoy DONNIE DARKO that much. The most interesting in thiz movie is our curiosity about what is really happens. Too see this kind of movie, we had to put aside our logic for a while. Because anything we see in thiz movie is very absurd. Thiz story had been told in one of the episode of TWILIGHT ZONE series in 1980s era. The film has setting in 1976. I think the Creative Designer Team already done their job very well. Everything we see is truly 70s. The music was also thrilling, like we had been watching 70s horror movie. In the end, there will always be dilemma in our life: Is there something we already done? Or, something that we did not do? Visit My Blog on JONNY'S MOVEE : http://jonnyfendi.blogspot.com… Expand
0 of 17 users found this helpful017
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10
promatoJun 28, 2011
I have no idea how a movie of this quality rank could get the hilarious 47 out of 100 points. This is literally a masterpiece, one of the best movies made recently.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
diego9901Feb 7, 2013
esta película es una prueba ingeniosa para la mente aunque es un poco lenta su historia salva a esta película de caer en el basio en el que han caído varias películas que intentan lo mismo
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
5
CineAutoctonoDec 22, 2015
"The Box" under a single perspective was a bit interleaving and topics of beyond and what a box to be able to do, but we do not know if that really happened , but it was chilling , but also less interesting.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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0
ReginaFNov 10, 2009
Worst. Movie. Ever.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
EnzoP.Nov 6, 2009
The Box starring Cameron Diaz is a scary suspense thriller that almost pulled it off. The Box was a lot better then I thought it was going to be but still not good and don't even get me started about a complicated plot. By the trailer I The Box starring Cameron Diaz is a scary suspense thriller that almost pulled it off. The Box was a lot better then I thought it was going to be but still not good and don't even get me started about a complicated plot. By the trailer I thought the whole movie was going to be should I press the button or not. Well, if you thought that also you are very wrong. The plot was the only big problem about this film. Everything else was not bad. Surprisingly the acting was good, not award winning acting but you get the point. A very nice looking cast with a very underrated James Marsden. I think they acted good because it was a very easy movie to act in, and Frank Langella had to speak in a low voice and that was really it for him. But I was a bit confused at the start of the movie because when they said they had twenty four hours it seemed a lot longer the one day. They should of made the movie shorter so the plot wouldn't be so complicated. The more the movie went on, the more I got bored of watching this film. The box may of had many little problems but it had many sparks as well. The way Richard Kelly filmed the movie. The camera never just stayed in one spot. He found creative ways to show the viewers each seen. Don't forget all of the nail biter scenes. Like after when the man came, whoops almost gave away the movie. Those nail biter scenes wanted you to say no don't do it. Many times with the nail biter scenes came the freaky scenes their were a few but still made my heart jump a little. Overall The Box is a fun, stupid, funny, depressing ending movie that has all the traits for a friday night movie to see with all of your friends.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
CaitlinA.Nov 7, 2009
I adore Richard Kelly. This movie is a triumph cinematically. The treatment of the period, the way in which he handled the camera, the story is all poetically beautiful. It is a shame that it was his opportunity to achieve commercial success I adore Richard Kelly. This movie is a triumph cinematically. The treatment of the period, the way in which he handled the camera, the story is all poetically beautiful. It is a shame that it was his opportunity to achieve commercial success and ultimately due to his overthinking mind will alienate the audience whose support he requires. It is also, by far, his most conceptually clear film (in that the references and literary and theoretical allusions are well articulated). Its issues, of course, come from the simple fact that there was initially a longer cut and so important scenes that either establish or explain are lost. Nonetheless, it's a beautiful movie. In fact, saw it last night and am going back this afternoon.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
MikeMikeNov 9, 2009
OK, I know this is said a lot, but this is the worst movie I have sat through in years. I now have absolutely no respect for Roger Ebert. The movie is an absolute mess. I gave it a 1 simply for a couple of cool effects. Even my teenager OK, I know this is said a lot, but this is the worst movie I have sat through in years. I now have absolutely no respect for Roger Ebert. The movie is an absolute mess. I gave it a 1 simply for a couple of cool effects. Even my teenager laughed at it. Don't even think about it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
ChrisBNov 9, 2009
Why the fuck has this gotten an equal meta-score as saw 1?? that is just plain absurd. This movie really is a saw ripoff and I was willing to give it a chance until they stole the saw theme song amd put it in the trailer. If you want a Why the fuck has this gotten an equal meta-score as saw 1?? that is just plain absurd. This movie really is a saw ripoff and I was willing to give it a chance until they stole the saw theme song amd put it in the trailer. If you want a horror movie of this style, do the right thing, and go see saw 6.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
AhmadR.Feb 14, 2010
I guess this movie is one of a few movies released that needs more thought and consideration. However, the idea behind the movie is not unique, the way the scenes develops makes you feel interested to know the end. As it is said in the I guess this movie is one of a few movies released that needs more thought and consideration. However, the idea behind the movie is not unique, the way the scenes develops makes you feel interested to know the end. As it is said in the movie, whatever our choice in life is, there the consequences waiting for us.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
AdamGMar 11, 2010
The movie grabs you, and keeps you interested for about 30 minutes... then comes the "twist" Save your money.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
JimFNov 10, 2009
Richard Kelly takes a perfectly comprehensible, and enjoyable, "Twilight Zone" episode (from a Richard Matheson story) and extends it into an incomprehensible, sleep-inducing feasture film that isn't just oblique but distasteful. I was Richard Kelly takes a perfectly comprehensible, and enjoyable, "Twilight Zone" episode (from a Richard Matheson story) and extends it into an incomprehensible, sleep-inducing feasture film that isn't just oblique but distasteful. I was in the minority in not liking "Donnie Darko", but it was well-made and intelligent enough to make me hope that "The Box" might be a pleasant surprise. It wasn't, the main mystery being how Kelly got major studio backing for this far-out project.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ToddHNov 11, 2009
This is one of the more thoughtful, creative, interesting, albeit bizarre films I have seen in a long time. I'm sorry if there was too much going on for some viewers to follow (i.e. those that went expecting a "movie" instead of a This is one of the more thoughtful, creative, interesting, albeit bizarre films I have seen in a long time. I'm sorry if there was too much going on for some viewers to follow (i.e. those that went expecting a "movie" instead of a "film"). This is art- from the cinematography to the music to the combination of moral fable, sci-fi, and suburban horror. If I were teaching a film as literature course I would use this as one of the films- and have students draw from Milgram's Shock Experiment & Sartre's No Exit in explicating it. Tons of material for philosophical and sociological discussion/analysis. Loved it!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
KatherineYNov 6, 2009
I am amazed at all the symbolism the critics do not seem to get. Like Kelly's other films, this movie is really a symbolic representation of our deepest questions regarding life, the existence of God and other issues of human existance I am amazed at all the symbolism the critics do not seem to get. Like Kelly's other films, this movie is really a symbolic representation of our deepest questions regarding life, the existence of God and other issues of human existance such as original sin. It is not just a science fiction movie. If you can't see past the button to the apple in eden then you're missing a huge part of the film. Intelligent, surreal and thought provoking as always, I am already waiting for Kelly's next film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
BobS.Nov 6, 2009
Worst movie ever seen. Made no sense and would not reccomend anyone to see this movie. HORRIBLE.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
ChadS.Nov 7, 2009
"In the Cut", Jane Campion's poorly received feminist thriller is remembered, if at all, for Meg Ryan's surprising nude scenes, more so than the manner in which Virginia Woolf's "To the Lighthouse", a novel taught by "In the Cut", Jane Campion's poorly received feminist thriller is remembered, if at all, for Meg Ryan's surprising nude scenes, more so than the manner in which Virginia Woolf's "To the Lighthouse", a novel taught by Ryan's English professor character, leaps off the page and encroaches its way into her everyday life. "In the Cut" climaxes with Franny being driven by her assailant, literally, to the lighthouse, where attempted murder will eventuate itself. "The Box" borrows liberally from the Australian auteur's narrative highwire act, as Norma(Cameron Diaz), a college instructor, like Franny, teaches a work of literature(Jean-Paul Satre's 1944 play "No Exit"), that insinuates itself into a literal metaphor at the apex of a life or death situation. Whereas the Campion film was a deconstruction of the thriller, a feminization of the male narrative, "The Box" merely aims to be smarter than your average sci-fi film. And it is, sort of. At times, the filmmaker seemingly paraphrases Arthur C. Clarke's quote about technology being indistinguishable from magic, in which the "Donnie Darko" helmer's storytelling wavers between cerebral and cerebrally crazy, and cerebrally crazy and outright loony. But maybe it's not his fault, maybe it's the story itself(adapted from a Richard Matheson short), whose aliens conduct tests much more ambitious than your standard full body probe. "The Box" finally loses its shape when Arthur(James Marsden) and Norma go to the library; that's where generic major studio filmmaking bites the dust. Depending on who you are, that's either a good or bad thing. It's flawed like how Darren Aronofsky's "The Fountain" was flawed; both films bear the mark of a personal voice, which sometimes say the craziest things.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
HunterLApr 11, 2010
A bizarre thriller that leaves you guessing throughout the film, and still even after the credits have rolled.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
NoahF.Apr 25, 2010
This is really funny for me and making Richard Kelly crap his pants.... because all you people out there thought this movie sucked but you also hate when there is too much action in a movie but these are the kind of movies that the King Pins This is really funny for me and making Richard Kelly crap his pants.... because all you people out there thought this movie sucked but you also hate when there is too much action in a movie but these are the kind of movies that the King Pins at universal studios say that the reason is for making lame movies like Iron Man and Terminator...pure action....well you get what you asked for...look for a summer filled with tons of crappy action movies...because you could pay attention to a great but slow movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MattTNov 10, 2009
As absurd as this movie is, Richard Kelly continues to make a movie that keeps you thinking. As in all of his movies, you never know, and that bothers people. People want closer in a movie. But this movie will not provide that, and that does As absurd as this movie is, Richard Kelly continues to make a movie that keeps you thinking. As in all of his movies, you never know, and that bothers people. People want closer in a movie. But this movie will not provide that, and that does not bother me. I enjoyed this film, thought about the premise and idea of the movie, and still found it worth while to see.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
JamieSNov 11, 2009
Worst acting I've ever seen. The accent is made it not believable. It made no sense. I felt like WTF the whole way except the beginning. The beginning was good and then it started making no sense as the movie progressed. It is worth a Worst acting I've ever seen. The accent is made it not believable. It made no sense. I felt like WTF the whole way except the beginning. The beginning was good and then it started making no sense as the movie progressed. It is worth a big fat zero. James Marsden is hot though.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
ReginaFNov 14, 2009
Worst. Movie. Ever.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
WarnerV.Nov 19, 2009
If Richard Kelly was a chef, he would cook a marvelous meal and then destroy it on presentation by putting so much on your plate it would be falling into your lap. So it is with every movie he has ever done, they go on and on and on into If Richard Kelly was a chef, he would cook a marvelous meal and then destroy it on presentation by putting so much on your plate it would be falling into your lap. So it is with every movie he has ever done, they go on and on and on into irrelevance. He thinks every frame helps tell his story and is precious....Um, Wrong. Let me take The Box back to the editing suite and cut out all the extraneous fat. It would be a good movie then, not a 10 but definitely an 8. As it is right now, its an optimistic 6.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
JamesH.Nov 25, 2009
This was a better movie than I thought it would be. It succeeded at its goal which was to make an extended entertaining twilight zone episode. Rod Serling would be proud. Props to Frank Langella who is fast becoming one of my favorite actors.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
Mr.D.Nov 6, 2009
Beautiful Horror Movie... Great actor's performance and perfect suspense !!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
MattS.Nov 6, 2009
It was the most confusing movie I have ever seen, but I still liked it. Similar to how Donnie Darko was confusing yet intriguing. I still don't fully understand it after thinking about it for awhile now.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
GeeTNov 9, 2009
This was the worst movie I have ever seen. The plot seems to have been thrown together by a 5 year old. It should not be classified as a horror film, either.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
RPNov 11, 2009
An excellent, thought-provoking movie but there's a catch - it's not for everyone. In fact if you have no interest in existential philosophy, it will probably just give you a headache. Be prepared to think outside The Box.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
MaxLNov 14, 2009
The last third undone whatever was interesting in the premise of the absurd story. Acting was decent and the setting in the 70's was nicely done. Watch the "Twilight Zone" episode for a better version.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
RodericR.Dec 23, 2009
Could have been so much better. Disjointed, odd, and a little too preachy at times. This had promise, but failed to deliver much substance. I literally laughed out loud reading the use comment that claimed the library scene was one of the Could have been so much better. Disjointed, odd, and a little too preachy at times. This had promise, but failed to deliver much substance. I literally laughed out loud reading the use comment that claimed the library scene was one of the best in cinema history. Are you freaking kidding me? Watch about 3 movies - at random - and you will likely find a MUCH better scene. There is nothing in this movie that would make me seek out the writer, director, or producer to see what else they have done. It was definitely not a zero, but anyone reasonable would struggle to give it higher than a 5.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
BroyaxMay 17, 2023
Il me semble qu’ils en avaient fait un épisode de la Quatrième dimension dont je ne me souviens pas vraiment mais ça ne pouvait pas être aussi chiant à crever que ce truc sans queue ni tête de presque deux heures rigoureusement…interminablesIl me semble qu’ils en avaient fait un épisode de la Quatrième dimension dont je ne me souviens pas vraiment mais ça ne pouvait pas être aussi chiant à crever que ce truc sans queue ni tête de presque deux heures rigoureusement…interminables !…

Ce branque de réalisateur ne fait que meubler à partir d’une idée certes intéressante mais qui finit par être délayée à un tel point qu’elle ne ressemble plus à rien. Seul Langella tire son épingle du jeu avec brio : ce sont les seuls moments où ses airs inquiétants et sinistrement cyniques éveillent une petite once d’intérêt.

Le reste du temps, on se fait chier à mort. Donnez-moi la boîte, si ça permet de zapper cet abruti de Richard Kelly, j’appuie tout de suite sur ce putain de bouton.… Expand
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4
NobodyYouKnowNov 24, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Interesting idea that is weighed down by leaden direction and acting. The first 30 minutes were just bad -- the pregnant pauses during almost every exchange were painfully awkward. And the nearly incessant use of overly dramatic music throughout the movie was distracting rather than supportive.

I love metaphorical movies, but the metaphor here was just too heavy-handed. Yes, people are selfish and humanity kinda sucks. So, what was that point of showing how empathetic Diaz's character was (to Langella's character) after she had already pushed the button? And then make her pay anyway? I've read more sci-fi short stories than I can recall, so I'm probably jaded, but the idea of aliens judging humanity is a tired device. And Langella's scene of expository dialog around the 1:10 mark was just plain preachy and really detracted from the story. If you're going to go to all the trouble Richard Kelly did to create rather detailed metaphor, don't ruin it with preachy expository dialog.

That said, it was unpredictable enough to keep me watching till the end, but worth viewing only if you have nothing better to do.… Expand
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5
FilipeNetoApr 18, 2021
There are some films that make us feel like punching the director and the screenwriter... we see that it has potential for more, but they are ruined and shattered by their lack of competence. That is the case with this film, which hasThere are some films that make us feel like punching the director and the screenwriter... we see that it has potential for more, but they are ruined and shattered by their lack of competence. That is the case with this film, which has excellent premises for suspense and mystery which the stupidity of director/screenwriter Richard Kelly gradually tears down.

As I said, the film starts really well: in the Sixties, the decade of the space race, a couple receives a mysterious package with a box, apparently of little use, in which there is a big button inside a glass bell. Shortly after, they receive a visit from a very well-dressed stranger, who tells them that the box will be theirs for a day, in which they will decide whether to press the button or not. If they decide to do so, they automatically earn a million dollars, but someone in the world, whom they don't know, will die. The moral dilemma is devastating and would make anyone think a lot: on the one hand, the value offered meant, at the time, the rest of a worry-free life. On the other hand, it is money soiled with blood, even if the person who dies is not known. The film would have done well if it stayed here, and woven around this premise a moral and family drama fraught with tension, also taking advantage of the fact that the offer was perhaps too good to be real, and the identity of the employers of that mysterious man were, perhaps, even more mysterious than himself. But it doesn't... it extends too much, explores the spatial issue too much without giving rise to something really good for the story and, to some extent, it seems to want to include aliens or other strange cosmic forces. Anyway, the film becomes a mess that eliminates the initial tension and completely spoils the whole set.

The cast has the participation of Cameron Diaz, who does a satisfying and quality job, but is not able to save the film by itself. Even more impressive is the good work of Frank Langella. The actor, who already seems to have an appetite for characters with a sinister and somber touch (I remember the dark and elegant way he worked on "Frost/Nixon" and also his excellent work on "Ninth Gate"), could not seem more dark here: with part of his face burnt, elegant clothes with impeccable cut and a black car worthy of a corporate CEO, Langella is great in his character and the initial scenes, in which he shows the box and makes his offer, with an excellently modulated and deep voice are, truly, the best in the film for me. I can't see an actor better than him for this character. The rest of the cast is limited to gravitating around these two actors and giving them all the space they need for their work. James Marsden still tries to excel, but there is no way to meet with his colleagues.

Technically, the film has ups and downs. Cinematography is excellent and makes good use of everything it has, with a dark touch and low contrast. The sets and costumes are good, but there is a little more period sense: the film takes place in the Sixties, but if we take out the furniture, the old technologies (the analogical TV, the corded phone) and the theme of the space race, everything else could easily be from the Nineties. The makeup work is good, particularly the one dedicated to Langella, and there is some good and discreet CGI. The soundtrack is forgettable and hardly noticeable.… Expand
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10
HighRatedJul 28, 2021
One of the most original and thought provoking films ever to bless the screen. Completely underrated unfortunately, which may have turned some viewers away but believe me, if your an artist, a mystic, a sci-fi nerd or a horror buff, this is aOne of the most original and thought provoking films ever to bless the screen. Completely underrated unfortunately, which may have turned some viewers away but believe me, if your an artist, a mystic, a sci-fi nerd or a horror buff, this is a must see. Never seen anything like it then or now. Richard Kelly’s most ambitious and original movie by far. It will have you thinking about reality, the very being of existence, and what lies beyond death. Excellent film!… Expand
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0
asdf_manJun 2, 2021
Absolutely horrible.
The hollow and weal plot didn’t seem to go anywhere and the villain LITERALLY doesn’t seem to have an end goal or purpose.
The company that branded the movie as a “sci-fi” show are completely lying to us and themselves.Absolutely horrible.
The hollow and weal plot didn’t seem to go anywhere and the villain LITERALLY doesn’t seem to have an end goal or purpose.

The company that branded the movie as a “sci-fi” show are completely lying to us and themselves.
It is just another fantasy movie in a modern somewhat urban setting. It was so confusing that I couldn’t tell if the supposed villains are trying to enact poetic justice, teach the main characters a lesson, or they just want to be the bad guys with a goal for reducing the population in mind. If they’re trying that hard to *do something good for the world* then they could use their “sci-fi like tech” aka purely fantastical magic to wipe out mosquitoes or aliens with an evil agenda.
And irreversible blindness and deafness. HELLO
cataracts tend to cause blindness which can be reversed. Hearing aids can help lessen deafness, if the kid’s deafness and blindness at the end of the movie really is irreversible, then the villains truly are using magic.… Expand
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