K-Pax

Dr. Mark Powell (Jeff Bridges) is juggling a large caseload at a Manhattan psychiatric hospital when he's introduced to new patient Prot (Kevin Spacey). Prot, who devours fruit and wears dark sunglasses due to light sensitivity, captures the doctor's interest with his inhuman response to drugs, his rational intelligence, and his claim to be from a planet 1,000 light years away - "K-PAX."

Prot becomes very popular with the members of his ward, all quirky characters with non-harmful, endearing problems. He upsets Mark by counselling them, but of course his methods work. He astounds astronomy experts with his knowledge of distant solar systems, and of course with any good film featuring a possible alien - he's going home! This is due to happen on July 27th and adds momentum to the film as the days pass and the trip draws closer.

The script is well written, with much room left for interpretation and an ambiguous ending that will surely be a hot topic of discussion in the bar afterwards!. At the beginning of the movie, we are led to believe that Prot is an alien, almost beyond a shadow of a doubt. Later in the movie, however, the pendulum swings the other way as the possibility of his human nature increases.

Kevin Spacey turns in yet another charismatic performance, the highlight being during the hypnosis scenes in which he does several different characters and is given a great chance to show off his acting ability.

For a film trying to tie in so many different genres, it would have been easy for K-Pax to not quite achieve anything and in the process end up with nothing. But, not forgetting the words of Prot "Get it right this time. This time is all you have", K-Pax got it right. It may not fit into any one category, but it is enjoyable and leaves you thinking...

So was he, or was he not?

Vicki Robertson