The Thirteenth Floor
A Columbia Pictures Release Story

review by Joe Mauceri

Question Reality

The filmmakers who attempted last summer's "Godzilla" change direction by telling a futuristic literary based sci-fi parable. THE THIRTEENTH FLOOR is based on "Simulacron 3," written by Daniel Galouye. Instead of this being a special effects driven film -- where the effects are the stars-- they service the plot. The blending of these elements, along with a strong cast, establishes a new genre -- Cyber-Noir. The plot arises from the murder Hannon Fuller, which serves as a catalyst to awaken the consciousness of Douglas Hall. Fuller and Hall are cutting-edge computer visionaries who have taken the notion of virtual reality to astounding new levels. Inside the computer is a simulation of Los Angeles circa 1937. Beyond creating all the aspects of this world, they have designed programs that are personality constructs. In essence, they are people that live and work within the simulation. When they enter the virtual world, they do so via a link construct. Hallís quest in the virtual world overshadows the murder investigation and opens up a pandora's possibilities for Hall's reality. There is a classical plotting to the narrative that unfolds like a mythological tale of the cybergods. The folks at Centropolis Effects artistically use the digital effects to establish highly stylized countenances for the different worlds. Most notably is their recreation of Los Angeles circa 1937. In certain places they have given facelifts to older buildings, while in others they removed large chunks that did not exists. The simulated world of 1937 has a feeling of grandeur. The film feels as if they filmed it on these actual locations. They synthesize the live action and effects through a washed-out/pastel cinematography. The overall effect is an impression that suggests a Cecil B. DeMille epic. What reinforces the epic feel, plus the impression of film noir, is the strong cast. Craig Bierkoís scruffy, deep voice ó sporting a five oíclock shadow throughout most of the film -- allots him this Bogartesque screen presence. Gretchen Mol does an amazing job of creating two distinct personalities. Armin Muller-Stahl is a true gentleman of the cinema, while Vincent DíOnonfrio alternates between a computer geek and ruthless bartender. THE THIRTEENTH FLOOR is a combination of classical elements, which plays out like Philip K. Dick meets Orson Welles in a superior virtual thriller. Again, state of the art special effects are seamlessly combined with live action. Rusnakís orchestration of all these elements transforms the silver screen into a cinematic canvas. THE THIRTEENTH FLOOR is an entertaining substitute if you find yourself sold out of STAR WARS. Oh, and George, just a little reminder that "story does matter!"

OFFICIAL WEB SITE:
www.spe.sony.com/movies/13thfloor

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