One Hour Photo (2002) Review in 2025
One Hour Photo is a psychological thriller about a mall photo developer who becomes obsessed with a family he's been taking pictures for. The movie explores themes of loneliness, obsession, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for families with young children due to mature themes and some violence.
CineReview Recommendation
One Hour Photo is a gripping and unsettling thriller that's perfect for fans of psychological suspense. However, it's not for the faint of heart, as it deals with some mature themes and features some intense violence.
Spoiler Alert!
Hover to reveal spoiler summary
The movie takes a dark turn when the main character, Sy Parrish, discovers a family secret that sets him on a path of destruction. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Sy's obsession with the family is not just about taking pictures, but about seeking connection and validation in a world that has rejected him.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a clear three-act structure. However, some plot twists feel a bit predictable, and the ending could be more satisfying.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, particularly from Robin Williams, who gives a nuanced and terrifying performance as Sy Parrish. The supporting cast is also strong, with standout performances from Eva Amurri and Michael Vartan.
characters9.00/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, particularly Sy Parrish, who is played by Robin Williams in a chilling performance. The supporting cast is also strong, with standout performances from Eva Amurri and Michael Vartan.
direction8.50/10
Mark Romanek's direction is taut and atmospheric, creating a sense of tension and unease from the start. The camera work is also noteworthy, with some impressive use of close-ups and long takes.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is dark and moody, with a muted color palette that adds to the overall sense of unease. However, some shots feel a bit too long or too close, which can be distracting.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Robin Williams' performance is chilling and nuanced, the story is engaging and well-paced, and the direction is taut and atmospheric.
Cons
Some plot twists feel a bit predictable, the ending could be more satisfying, and the cinematography can be a bit distracting at times.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a monster, I'm just a man who's been hurt."
"I'm not a stalker, I'm a collector."
"You're not a family, you're just a collection of people who happen to live in the same house."
