October 5-11, 2002

UK One Hour Photo Review

Thanks to Sponesix. :)

Starring: Robin Williams, Connie Neilson, Michael Vartan
Director: Mark Romanek

The Plot:
A lonely middle-aged photo developer becomes obsessed with his favourite regular customers, the Yorkins, keeping copies of their snapshots of domestic bliss. First he tries to befriend the family but then his voyeurism becomes more sinister.

What is right with it?
Williams superbly plays against type as the unnervingly placid photo guy whose pale, almost overexposed looks mask the darkness in his psyche. A delicious tension is maintained, as we're never quite sure how far he'll go to realise his technicolour fantasies.

What's wrong with it?
Some of his actions are bafflingly out of character, which gives the film slightly unsatisfactory conclusion.

Verdict:
A fascinating premise, that'll make you think twice about where you get your snaps done in the future.

Rating:
3/5

© Heat Magazine 2002

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