Newport Beach Film Festival 2008

I have to admit I did not know what to expect when I went in to this film, but I must say that I was pleasantly surprised. The movie starts out as a playful romp that could have easily descended into the typical "he said she said" fare. However, as the film progresses, the playful veneer is pulled away to reveal much more serious emotional undertones. I was particularly impressed with the on-screen relationships. It is often difficult in film to find moments of genuine emotional connection. Lie to Me hinges on these moments and thankfully they are pulled off adeptly by the excellent cast. Brandon Routh does an exemplary job in the film bringing both humor and serious emotion to his role. It is nice to see him expanding his acting horizons and I look forward to seeing him in more diverse roles in the future. Courtney Ford does an outstanding job with her standout performance, showing both versatility and honesty. The on-screen chemistry between her co-star Steve Sandvoss as well as her real life husband (Routh) is both believable and intimate. I will not be surprised when I see her name popping up everywhere in the near future. Steve's character, who, in the hands of a lesser actor had the potential of coming across as easy to hate, was handled in such a way that he remains likable throughout. Nick Wechsler also stands out despite his smaller role. All in all, it is an excellent commentary on the choices we are presented with in life and how they effect us, despite our willingness to face them. The film was well done and I would not hesitate to recommend it.