Deception: a Knight Chills review of Case 39

Deception: A Knight Chills review of Case 39

By Nomar Knight

     Here’s another horror movie which plays on the theme that things aren’t always as they seem.  I love it when horror writers exploit kindness and make unselfish characters suffer.  No, I don’t get off on watching nice people go through hell on Earth, but I do enjoy loathing the villain. 

     In the movie, Case 39, “a social worker (Zellweger) fights to save a girl from her abusive parents, only to discover that the situation is more dangerous than she ever expected” (IMDB).  Renée Zellweger does a splendid job in this little horror film.  She played a character named Emily Jenkins who thinks she’s protecting an innocent, abused child.  Well, experience can be a real pain, stripping you of all you have and this character finds out she had much to lose.  

     From a horror writer’s point of view, I enjoyed their attempt at maintaining a classical feel to this movie.  If you fear hornets, there’s an interesting scene for you.  Fire takes on symbolic meaning as well.  I loved the elevator scene.  Characterization was solid in this one.  You begin to feel for Emily and start to hope that her world doesn’t get totally destroyed.  

     Bottom line—movies with tough female protagonists usually delight me and this one did not disappoint.  I enjoy Renée Zellweger’s work.  If you are like me, a pro-child advocate, remind yourself that this is just a movie.  Don’t look at your neighbor’s children with suspicion.  All kids are angels.  Riiiight.  Yes, this movie does remind me to be careful what you wish for because you never know what hell lurks inside a few sweet, innocent children. So while you’re sitting in the dark, passing the popcorn, don’t forget to throw in a few condoms as well. 

     See you on the dark side. 

     Nomar Knight

     Knight Chills gives Case 39 four kills out of five.  

     © Copyright 2010 Nomar Knight. All rights reserved.  A Knight Chills review.