There was really no intrigue in _The Glass House_ which is missing a pretty fundamental step when you're making a mystery/thriller.
_Final rating:★½: - Boring/disappointing. Avoid where possible._
***Sad drama with Leelee Sobieski and Stellan Skarsgård switches to thriller***
A suddenly orphaned teen girl (Leelee Sobieski) & her little brother start a new life in Malibu with their guardians (Stellan Skarsgård & Diane Lane), who might not be the caring friends of their parents they seem to be. Bruce Dern is on hand as a lawyer.
“The Glass House” (2001) starts as a melancholic drama with the general plot, setting and tone of “Poison Ivy” (1992), but without the lethal Lolita angle. It eventually morphs into a suspense/thriller à la “Enough” (2002), just don’t expect Leelee to change into Rambo, like J-Lo.
Sobieski as protagonist Ruby is one-dimensionally sullen, which fits the situation, but it gives a lifeless vibe to the proceedings. Some critics claim the last act is predictable, but it's really not, excepting the fact that two people ultimately square off (which is obvious from the beginning). I'd cite examples but don't want to give away spoilers.
The film runs 1 hour, 46 minutes, and was shot in Malibu & that general area of Los Angeles.
GRADE: B-
RalphRahal
January 11, 2025
6
The Glass House is one of those movies that might not blow you away but keeps you intrigued with its unsettling vibe. The cold, modern house perfectly mirrors the eerie atmosphere, creating an unsettling backdrop for the story. The cinematography uses this to its advantage, making the environment feel as much a part of the tension as the characters themselves. Leelee Sobieski delivers a standout performance, convincingly portraying her character’s growth and determination amidst the unfolding mystery. Stellan Skarsgård adds another layer with his chilling yet restrained presence, keeping you on edge even when the story feels familiar.
Sure, the plot leans toward predictable territory, which seems to be a sticking point for critics, but the film’s strength lies in how it teases the possibility of different outcomes. Even if the ending plays it safe, the journey there has enough intrigue to hold your attention. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s a solid thriller with good acting, a cold and unsettling tone, and just enough tension to make it worth a watch. If you’re in the mood for something straightforward yet atmospheric, it’s a decent pick.
