First things first. Reece Shearsmith's character in The Cottage was one of the most annoying characters I've ever encountered in a movie. All his spineless cringing, screaming, and his general uselessness, made me want to climb somehow into the movie and kill him. Yes, I know the character was intentionally written
that way, and in no manner is this a criticism of the movie. I'd actually like to commend the director, writer(s), and Reece himself, for creating such a thoroughly annoying character. Now, on to the review.I liked the first half of The Cottage more than the second. The initial half was fairly humorous, and gave off an enjoyably creepy vibe. I was eagerly anticipating the arrival of some vague threat, while gleefully cheering for Ellison's rather intimidating prisoner. Serkis was also in fine form, as his character struggled to salvage some kind of plan amidst the overwhelming incompetence of his cohorts. The second half of the movie is basically a decidedly average slasher-film. Not awful, but nothing special. I found myself missing the humor of the first 40 minutes. Depending on your preference for that genre, you may end up liking The Cottage more than I did. It only came to my attention because of the presence of Jennifer Ellison, but I'm glad that I ended up seeing it.
March 18, 2010
Top Critic
