Today’s quick review: Limitless. Eddie Morra (Bradley Cooper), a struggling writer, turns his life around when an old friend introduces him to NZT-48, a miracle drug that unlocks the mind’s full potential. He uses his newfound brilliance to make a fortune in finance, but his meteoric rise earns him powerful new enemies. Even more troubling are the drug’s side effects: headaches, blackouts, and the threat of a lifetime addiction.
Limitless is a science fiction thriller that explores the upper limits of human potential. Limitless boasts a strong script, capable dramatic acting, and polished presentation. The movie keeps busy with several interesting subplots, including Eddie’s relationship with his girlfriend Lindy (Abbie Cornish), his attempts to impress finance legend Carl Van Loon (Robert De Niro), and his investigation into NZT-48’s origins.
In spite of his intelligence, Eddie is more of an addict than a mastermind. Every now and then, the story flirts with cat-and-mouse games, but Eddie tends to react more than he plans ahead. The serious tone of the movie, the mysteries surrounding the drug, and the drastic changes to Eddie’s life all push Limitless in the direction of a dramatic thriller rather than a cerebral tale of machiavellian ambition.
Limitless is a potent power trip wrapped around an interesting story. The movie misses the chance to indulge in NZT-fueled battles of wits, and its themes of drug addiction may not appeal to everyone, but competent execution and an original premise make Limitless well worth a watch. Skip it if you are looking for a power fantasy with a lighter tone. Check out Layer Cake for a more mundane crime drama with similar themes.
7.4 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 for solid execution of an interesting premise.