'Transsiberian' review

Emily Mortimer in "Transsiberian" (Credit: First Look)

When newly married couple Roy (Woody Harrelson) and Jessie (Emily Mortimer) board the Trans-Siberian train from Beijing to Moscow they cross paths with mysterious international tourists Carlos (Eduardo Noriega) and Abby (Kate Mara) who are being pursued by yet another mystery man, the Russian Grinko (Ben Kingsley).

Big question: Can the old fashioned concept of a train-set thriller hold up for contemporary audiences?

Catch it: Although this journey is slow to start, once it gets rolling the intensity doesn't let up. The film's ever-evolving moral complexity turns on Jessie, who's far more complex than she first appears. The role allows the reliable but undervalued Mortimer a chance to step into the spotlight and she navigates the film's gritty B-movie theatrics with ease.

Skip it: If you're hoping every character will be equally compelling. Harrelson, Noriega and Mara are easy to watch but their one-note characters keep the film from achieving true can't-miss status.

Bottom line: You can see better thrillers this year (the French mystery "Tell No One," for one), but Mortimer's portrayal of dubious grace under pressure and an action-packed third act balance out the film's shortcomings.

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