Layover

The idea for Abducted aka Layover intrigued me and I like thrillers. I was dubious though because it was from The Asylum, who have a notoriety for bad movies. But I am glad I saw Layover because while not a great movie it was a good one. Maybe the pace could have been tighter,for me some of the middle dragged a little. The dialogue, while leagues above the dialogue for many other Asylum movies having some tension and focus, could have done with being less cheesy and predictable in places. And the movie did stretch believability a bit, not as frequently or blatantly as other Asylum efforts, but I just couldn't buy somebody being rewarded when their conduct was so incompetent. Layover does look good though, the settings and lighting are more accomplished and the camera work and editing better placed and smoother. The music and sound effects are well suited to the atmosphere without being too obtrusive or obvious. The story is not much new and but not too predictable or derivative, overall it is gripping with a suspenseful atmosphere and a fun twist. The characters didn't annoy me and served a purpose, while the direction is solid enough. And Layover is easily the best-acted Asylum movie to date and that is saying a lot. Lauren Holly is a strong lead and Kaylee DeFer is charismatic and has some great comedic chops. Joe Lando is good too if deserving of a bigger role. Overall, a surprisingly good movie. 7/10 Bethany Cox