Film delivers suspense, implausible plot

While watching “Eagle Eye,” viewers may be excited by the number of dangerous car crashes and thrilling chase scenes. Some may even feel sympathy for Shia LaBeouf’s character, Jerry Shaw. But if plausibility is important, viewers may find the movie laughable and completely unrealistic at times.

Paramount Pictures did a great job if they intended for the movie trailer to show off the characters without revealing any information about the movie.

The movie centers on Jerry and Rachel (Michelle Monaghan), who are being ordered around by an unknown woman while at the same time being chased by the authorities. Rosario Dawson also plays a small role as Zoe, a pointless character that would have had a better purpose in another film. It is a mystery as to why Dawson is there, portraying such an awkward character.

Amazingly Jerry and Rachel somehow manage to rob an armored truck with guns despite having no previous weapon experience. Then, somehow, the two manage to infiltrate the Pentagon, bypassing all security. It is also unclear why Jerry and Rachel continue to ignore the mysterious character on the phone even though she clearly can have them killed. Some could argue that movies are supposed to be fictional, but this film had too many impossible moments.

One bright spot in the film is actor Billy Bob Thornton. Thornton plays Morgan, a detective with an egotistical attitude and brash sense of humor. Although he is essentially portraying the same character that he usually does, it is still enjoyable to hear some of his one-liners.

There are some redeeming qualities with the stunt work and computer-generated images. The car chase scenes are abnormally exciting, and the intense moments are sure to cause some hand-wringing. Even the relationship between Jerry and his twin brother Ethan (also played by LaBeouf) is also an interesting side story. One brother constantly under the shadow of his athletic and charming brother is a situation that many can relate to.

Another high point of the movie is the way the relationship between Jerry and Rachel progresses. The tension between the two is awkward at first, as expected between two people in the same situation. But as the film goes on, the two get used to each other and finally become friends.

Although there are several impossible moments, “Eagle Eye” saves itself with intense chase scenes and many suspenseful moments. The movie does not provide a perfect example of Shia LaBeouf’s credible acting, but it does keep viewers on the edge waiting for answers. If answers can be found, maybe the disappointment about the film’s potential,

will disappear.

3 out of 5 stars.