Review: Serenity Lacks Serenity

Serenity typically invokes thoughts of peace and calm, however; that is not the case in Aviron’s new film, Serenity. Starring Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway, Serenity follows Baker Dill (McConaughey), a fisherman who spends his days trying to catch the big fish that has eluded Dill’s grasp. His life turns upside down when his ex-wife, played by Hathaway, shows up and asking for a very specific favor. A favor that will test him and change him in more ways than one.

Ex-lovers working together to pull off a sordid favor should be enough of a plot to create a solid movie with such a talented cast. Unfortunately, this is not the case. There’s an additional twist that is running alongside the main story that’s revealed at the end of the film, there just isn’t enough interesting bits throughout to keep people in their seats. Instead, the reveal adds to an overall confusing and boring film.

This could have been a fun thriller with a talented cast as opposed to what a dull dud it is. McConaughey and Hathaway’s talents are grossly underused as are their supporting castmates, Jason Clarke, Diane Lane, Djimon Hounsou and Jeremy Strong. This cast could have put on an intriguing show if the story had been right, but it wasn’t. It makes one wonder why they all originally signed on for the film at all.

For those looking for something to see at the theaters this week, stay away from Serenity. Go see something else or wait until this film is playing on TV. It is not worth spending the money to see, no matter how great the cast is.

Grade: D