The Cell

Somewhere between the late '90s and early 2000s, you and your friends decide to gather at the house of the only person who owns a DVD player. Your friend puts the movie recommended by the middle-aged owner of the neighborhood video store into the PlayStation 2, and everyone squeezes around the simple sixteen-inch TV, eagerly waiting for the delivery guy to ring the doorbell.

Ninety minutes later, you all agree that the pizza was a bit tasteless, but for the price, the quantity was more than enough. The beer or cola , although not cold, was a welcome addition, especially since it came free with the order. And while the movie wasn’t a masterpiece, it was definitely worth the time you spent watching it. None of you knew that night would be the last time you'd all gather together for a movie.

Two decades later, reflecting on those gatherings, you find yourself nostalgically recalling the incredible moments you spent watching movies with your friends. The closures of DVD rental shops, along with the rise of streaming services, significantly reduced the traditional movie nights where friends or families would gather to watch a film together.

The Cell encapsulates the essence of a mid-budget movie from the early 2000s. It combines elements of crime thriller, science fiction, and horror. With a famous pop star in the role of the psychologist and a beloved comedian playing a serious cop, the movie offers a colorful recipe for success, intended to satisfy the varied tastes of the old gang.

Although ambitious, it falls far short of perfection. The plot is riddled with flaws, the editing occasionally disrupts the narrative flow, and the lead performances are far from stellar. I found it particularly difficult to watch Jennifer Lopez, as I often felt she was speaking through her teeth. (I also have doubts about her acting abilities.)

On the other hand, Vincent D'Onofrio’s performance as the villain was outstanding and is often cited as one of the film’s highlights.

Director Tarsem Singh’s imaginative storytelling brings every scene to life with bold depictions. From the intricate costumes to the elaborate sets, every detail contributes to the movie’s powerful visual impact. Each frame feels like a surreal, colorful painting, leaving an indelible mark on the viewer’s psyche.

What movie comes to your mind when you look back on the golden age of DVD/VHS rentals?