Taking a slightly new approach to the title-bisected frame, this poster doesn't improve on the formula much. It's nice to see this kind of detail, but the detail isn't terribly exceptional thematically or otherwise.
This mysterious organization knowing precise information about star Shia LaBeouf's character seems a bit sketchy and with this tiny teaser, it's hard to know whether the film will be any good or not. Still, there's a modicum of intrigue displayed, which should get viewers clamoring for more information.
The intrigue of the second trailer is that it gives us a better idea of what is going to be happening in the film. While it doesn't exactly give anything away, it does make for a more engrossing premise. Some trailers need that kind of boost, others don't. Let's just hope the next trailer doesn't do as I expect and give away too much of the plot.
Like many other box office hopeful thrillers, this one isn't likely to translate any amount of box office into Oscar success.
The film doesn't take itself entirely seriously, and for that, much of the action and suspense works, though there are fundamental weaknesses throughout.
-Wesley Lovell (May 25, 2008) Original
-Wesley Lovell (June 29, 2008) New Trailer
-Wesley Lovell (August 24, 2008) New Poster
-Wesley Lovell (September 30, 2008) Review Posted