Lakeview Terrace (2008) (Movie Review)

Lakeview Terrace (2008) Not bad at all! Some say that without Samuel L Jackson, this film would be a huge failure.Which is totally untrue and it would be totally unfair to the brilliant Patrick Wilson!I watched this film precisely because it brought the two together. Samuel often has something extra: either a goatee, glasses or a special haircut. Patrick is very often very similar with the same head, cut, except in Watchmen (2009), of course, where he had to put on weight. He looks slightly different as Warren in all the Conjuring spin-off films, but it’s easy to recognise him. Note that this actor is also known for having played in Insidious and that he actually directed Insidious – Chapter 5 – The Red Door (2023).

Let’s get back to this film! Some people say there’s a lack of suspense, that the last few minutes are exciting, but the previous 90 minutes weren’t. Which just goes to show that they didn’t have enough suspense. Which just goes to show that these rich kids have never had any neighbourhood problems and don’t realise how lucky they are! I’m thinking especially of those who get bored as soon as there’s no action.

Another reviewer said: “Strange neighbours. An unusual story has been staged here. Black middle class meets black and white couple. Usually, if ever, this sort of thing only happens at the bottom end of society, at best among the rich and the poor. Conclusion: a slightly different story. In that sense, it’s worth considering. However, I was bothered by the fact that we learn so little about the background of S. Jackson’s character. This film could have shown more nuance in the way he acts. Shame, a missed opportunity!” A review that seems to contradict itself quite a bit. Read it again! “Usually, if ever, this sort of thing only happens in the lower echelons of society, at best among the rich and the poor.” First of all, ‘usually, if ever’ doesn’t seem to mean much! And what about ‘in the lower echelons of society, at the very least among the rich and the poor?” Who’s left but the middle class? And does that mean that the rich go to the shallows to do their most despicable deeds?

In short, this film is gripping, interesting, irritating… and it manages to get you where it wants to go. A descent into hell between neighbours. I really enjoyed it. The ending could have been more subtle.

Spoilers: Because it’s always more interesting to lose your house, your career and everything else… than to lose your life. It’s a bigger punishment.

My Rating