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The Bottom Line

The Lookout is one of 2007's best movies and one that unfortunately wasn't discovered by the audience it deserved during its theatrical release. Writer/director Scott Frank's absorbing tale features stand-out performances by Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Jeff Daniels, as well as Matthew Goode who takes a break from his normal romantic leading man roles to play the film's villain. This one's a must-see for anyone who enjoys intelligently written, character-driven movies.



Pros

• Easily one of the best films released in 2007
• An entertaining and original story
• Terrific performances by the entire cast
• Decent selection of bonus features

Cons

• None worth noting

Description

• 'Behind the Mind of Chris Pratt' - Interesting featurette on how Gordon-Levitt got into character as a brain-damaged man
• 'Sequencing The Lookout' - Making of featurette with cast and filmmaker interviews
• Commentary by writer/director Scott Frank and DP Alar Kivolo
• DVD Release Date: August 14, 2007

Guide Review - The Lookout DVD Review

The Story

Joseph Gordon-Levitt stars as Chris Pratt, a high school stud whose hockey career is put on ice after he's involved in a horrific car crash that leaves him with a severe brain injury. Following the accident Chris' short term memory is destroyed, forcing him to make copious notes about the simplest matters. Jeff Daniels co-stars as Chris' blind roommate, Lewis, whose physical handicap in no way hinders him from maintaining a basically normal life.

Chris spends his time going to counseling and rehab as well as performing his job as a night janitor at a local bank.

He's struggling along to deal with his brain injury when he meets up with an old friend of his sister's named Gary (Matthew Goode). Gary acts all friendly and concerned, but he's got a plan to get rich and Chris, who's very easily manipulated, is talked into helping him out...

The Bonus Features

Writer/director Scott Frank and director of photography Alar Kivilo discuss The Lookout on the DVD's only commentary track. While some directors sound a little stiff during these sessions, Frank comes across as proud of his film yet willing to point out what he thinks he did wrong or could have done better. It's apparent from the commentary that Frank and his DP Kivilo had a very collaborative relationship on the set.

The other two bonus features are Making Of featurettes that provide insight into how Gordon-Levitt was able to so brilliantly capture the character of Chris Pratt. Both are interesting and informative, and worth checking out after you've watched the feature film.

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