Watching “Push” is like starting a novel in the middle of the story. It’s chaotic and confusing and even though director Paul McGuigan tries to provide the appropriate back stories and explanations, it takes a while to understand what’s happening. There are a variety of humans who have abnormal abilities and are classified by names like ‘watchers’ (who can predict the future), ‘movers’ (who can shift physical items their minds), ‘pushers’ (who can influence the thoughts of others), ‘shifters’ (who can change the appearance of things), and ‘stitchers’ (who can heal). In Hong Kong, Nick Grant (Chris Evans), a mover and 13-year old Cassie Holmes (Dakota Fanning), a watcher who is trying to free her mother from government custody, are looking for Kira (Camilla Belle), a pusher who is the only survivor of an experimental drug to enhance psychic powers. Also chasing Kira are members of a shadowy government organization called The Company and members of a Chinese organization similar to The Company.
The film’s frenetic pace, which is responsible for much of the confusion throughout most of the movie, also keeps you from noticing the many coincidences that populate David Bourla’s script. Just when you think that our intrepid heroes are doomed, you discover there’s a ‘wiper,’ who can remove segments of memory. Chris Evans, who plays The Human Torch in “The Fantastic Four” movies, is obviously no newcomer to superhero movies. As Nick Grant, he portrays a more interesting and sympathetic character. And Dakota Fanning continues to move from child roles to adult ones, and impresses with both her range and skill. “Push” is an empty, style-driven thriller that looks much better than it is. Too bad. 2/7/09
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