Luke Wilson (“My Super Ex-Girlfriend”) and Kate Beckinsale (“Underworld: Evolution”) - two actors better known for comedy and action films - take a turn in Hitchcock territory, by starring in this horror thriller. The story takes its time in developing, and wisely focuses on this couple who are having relationship problems. The scares and intensity escalates from a quarter way into the film until the very end. Both “Vacancy” and Hitchcock’s “Psycho” sternly point out to beware of all motels off the beaten path. It is a lesson you will most assuredly will learn after watching this movie.
Wilson and Beckinsale are David and Amy Fox, a married couple who lose their way when they take a detour off the freeway late at night. The couples’ constant bickering only gets louder and more hurtful when the vehicle begins having engine trouble. Without knowing where they are and having a now defunct vehicle, the couple must decide whether to stay at a creepy and entirely vacant motel they find in their travels. This motel has had exceptionally violent things happen to its guests, which the Foxes learn upon watching a seedy snuff film found in their room. The makers of that film soon make their presence felt, as David and Amy must find a way out of their dangerous predicament alive.
The major issue with this film, which kept it from being great, was how transparent the ruse was at the motel. Upon meeting the other people during their travails, it was instantly obvious who was in on the sick games and who wasn’t. This took the who-done-it air out of the story, as that question was answered almost immediately. How the film was shot and the claustrophobic air the director gives the motel room, saves “Vacancy” from mediocrity. The Foxes react appropriately to their tough situation and actually make believable and decent decisions in the face of adversity.
Each actor is given the opportunity to shine, which both are able to pull off. However, it was Beckinsale that really pulled the film together, as her character’s initial vulnerability turned to determination as the story wore on. The toll of the experience really showed on her face and made the whole story convincing. It was also wonderful to see that the Foxes still care for each other, when push comes to shove. Ultimately, it’s the sneaking around in the film that takes its biggest toll on the audience, as waiting to get caught is almost worse than actually being caught. While there are some minor inconsistencies in the development of the story, overall “Vacancy” is definitely a film you should check out.
Rated R for brutal violence and terror, brief nudity and language.
