Spiral (2007) 6/10

Spiral is the first feature directed by Joel Moore (actor, hatchet) and Adam Green (director hatchet). I believe this was completed before Hatchet as it feels much more "student film-ish." The film was written by and stars Joel Moore, so this was really his baby, much like Hatchet was Adam Green's baby.

The film is about social misfit Mason and his obsession with painting. Mason is a corporate insurance salesman and meets the girl of his dreams at work. He begins sketching and painting her, as well as finally coming out of his shell. Once the girl finds out that he's painted many many girls before her and his possibly nefarious past, things go from romance flick to psychological thriller in a heart beat.

The film is adequately directed though it does come off as a first feature of a student, rather then the first feature of a qualified experienced director. The pacing is quick and the plot never really slows down. The acting is also adequate and the story has the requisite twist within a twist and works well.

In the end though there isn't enough to make Spiral stand out in the crowded psychological thriller genre. This one's for fans of Hatchet and mediocrity.

Overall - 6/10