From the beginning, it’s obvious how much Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson resemble each other. When Johnson’s character is hired to help ghostwrite the latest novel for bedridden popular writer Verity (Hathaway), we know where this is headed. Of course, to add to the spice there’s the handsome husband (Josh Hartnett). Other than a pretty dumb twist at the end, this plays out exactly like dozens of other films of this genre. Johnson has never impressed me as an actor, but her chemistry with Hartnett does provide a few moments of interest. Hathaway is only sometimes around, but her presence adds some charm. The continuous voiceover narration deadens any potential dramatic momentum. This film moves slowly and quietly, virtually lacking any tension. Except for the star power, this could easily be one of the bland “white wine thrillers” that populate the streamers…it’s just that predictable and dull. 1.5 out of 5.0 stars
