TRY AND DE-CYPHER THIS ONE
I've always enjoyed watching Jeremy Northam's work, whether in the sci fi classic MIMIC or the oh so proper GOSFORD PARK. But not even the usually suave Northam can save CYPHER from being a cinematic mess. It's premise of corporate espionage and it's mysterious underlying theme is initially intriguing and holds your interest, even though it's slow moving. But as the movie throws twist upon twist and never really validates these twists, it becomes more of an incomplete jigsaw puzzle than a complete movie. Lucy Liu struggles through a role that requires her to look seductive, but whose monotonous delivery negates any impact the actress could have. Although stylishly done, CYPHER is one of those movies you should be glad you rented and didn't buy.