DVD Corner

Kiss The Girls 4K UHD Review

“Kiss The Girls” is a generic thriller that is saved by a great cast.

Based on the novel by James Patterson, “Kiss The Girls” is a 1997 thriller that finds Dr. Alex Cross (a forensic psychologist that works for the Washington D.C. PD) taking on a personal case. His niece Naomi is missing and it is believed that a serial killer known as Casanova has abducted her. Casanova, meanwhile, has kidnapped a new woman (Dr. McTiernan) who manages to escape the clutches of Casanova. Knowing that other women are alive in Casanova’s lair, McTiernan helps Cross find Casanova’s hideout, but it’s possible Casanova might not be working alone.

Written by David Klass and directed by Gary Fleder, “Kiss The Girls” is one of the many 90’s thrillers that came out. Clearly inspired by the likes of “The Silence Of The Lambs,” ‘Kiss’ is a by-the-numbers James Patterson tale with the film’s hero (Alex Cross) on a race against time case filled with twists and turns. The drawn-out film, which was followed by the sequel “Along Came A Spider,” plods along until the eventful finale. The middle act really just feels like an exercise in padding as it offers up little of value. Of course, if you’re a fan of Patterson’s page turners, this might very well be up your alley. For everyone else, there’s more challenging and complex thrillers to be found out there.

The big plus here is the cast which features Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd, Cary Elwes, Brian Cox, Jeremy Piven, Tony Goldwyn, Jay O. Sanders and Bill Nunn. As mediocre as the movie may be, Freeman gives it his all here as the lead Alex Cross. He elevates every scene. Likewise, Ashley Judd is equally impressive as Dr. McTiernan who gives a very physical and dedicated performance. The supporting cast is all on point too. The entire ensemble really makes it all watchable.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 2160p. How does it look? This seemingly random catalogue release gets a quality upgrade that maintains the original grain and provides crisper image quality. The colors may not be quite as rich as one would expect from a 4K release though.

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? The audio track is satisfactory on all levels. It’s not going to wow you, but it does the job well.

Aside from a Digital copy, there are no other extras.

September 22, 2023 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | 90's Movie, Alex Cross, Ashley Judd, James Patterson, Kiss The Girls 4K UHD Review, Morgan Freeman, thriller