The Vanishing

A relaxing thriller with the great Kiefer Sutherland. It relies heavily on the story, which luckily is well-thought out and gripping. I was a little disappointed with the Sluizer’s uninspiring directing, but on the other hand The Vanishing is accompanied by Jerry Goldsmith’s music of genius from start to finish. (06.03.2010)

The Vanishing definitely has an interestingly conceived plot, which is developed through a decent screenplay that includes a few really intriguing moments. Moreover, it can certainly boast of having a good cast, with Kiefer Sutherland leading the way. However, if you don't quickly get used to Jeff Bridges' somewhat quirky expression, you might be a bit put off by it. The film also features excellent music by Jerry Goldsmith. Unfortunately, there is also poor direction here, which results in a lack of atmosphere, which this film should primarily rely on. Not once did I really care about what would happen to the characters and I was completely indifferent to the cruel fate of Jeff's girlfriend. Around halfway through, I lost interest in everything, and the highly praised ending felt like an incredibly "messed up," scene, an experience that can only be enjoyed by a true claustrophobic. I deeply hate the feeling of emptiness that came over me at the end of the film. (04.08.2005)

The training for the kidnapping piques interest, only for George Sluizer to repeatedly bring the chloroform-soaked plot closer to the viewer's watch. The action-packed cabin finale, which vaguely shows who here surprisingly has the balls, is just a jumble of genre clichés. Moreover, it doesn't help that Professor Bridges approached his role involving paranormal activities in the tower somewhat tipsily, and Goldsmith didn’t get the opportunity to shine. At least, when recalling the 1997 Breakdown with Kurt Russell, there’s a guide on how to get rid of an inconvenient partner. Just take her on a trip across the States in a red Jeep Cherokee. Someone will kidnap her for you. (10.07.2020)

This dark thriller is mainly driven by Jeff Bridges' performance, and for a movie fan, the presence of a young Sandra Bullock at a time when she was not yet a star is interesting. Although the screenplay is not among the best in the genre, the film does have a tense atmosphere and the villain's cynical demeanor captivates the audience. Overall impression: 60%. (18.04.2009)

Definitely a great addition to the mysterious genre. Although it is not a very well-known film, it has a lot of excellent scenes and solid performances. The great atmosphere of pure despair and hopelessness, framed by intense, escalating tension with an uncompromising finale – only for strong-natured individuals. Claustrophobics stay away. (11.02.2014)