The Source code, starring actors Jake Gyllenhaal and Michelle Monaghan, offers an innovative new idea to the often predictable action/thriller movie. Whereas typical action movies center around ever-changing settings from jungles, to deserts, to metropolitan cities, The Source Code revolves nearly completely around two single locations, forcing an emphasis on plot and back-story seldom seen in adventure movies.
An action packed opening fades to a somewhat repetitive middle that helps develop the plot but lacks the excitement of the first few minutes. The repetition of scenes, although interesting at first, eventually even makes a fiery explosion seem predictable and boring. However, the lack of a clear villain creates a sense of suspense that carries the movie throughout these more trying parts. Despite the somewhat monotonous middle, a climactic ending ties together the plot and allows viewers to leave the theatre feeling satisfied with the experience.
Although the movie is based completely on two settings, a train and a government base, that are repeated throughout the film, the cinematographers utilize different angles and positions to give various perspectives of a single area, keeping the setting familiar but not identical.
Furthermore, a limited number of characters in the film allows viewers to create a more personal relationship with the actors, although character development is somewhat disappointing with fluctuations of emotion and changes in belief only really seen in the protagonist.
Solid acting and impressive effects make the movie one worth watching, however it may not be worth the $10+ to see in a movie theatre. Wait until it is available on DVD or in Netflix to have a truly enjoyable experience both visually and financially.