"1408" - C+

Yet another original, spoiler-free Urban Docent movie review

The scary flick, "1408," has been out for several weeks, but I had the opportunity to see it for the first time this weekend. The movie is an adaptation of a Stephen King short story featured in the very fine collection, " Everything's Eventual."

I hadn't heard too much about "1408" heading into the theater, but I imagined it had to have some sticking power is it is still receive many showings in my local cineplex. So, why don't we check in for the fun ...

Summary: Mike Enslin is a horror writer, of sorts, who makes his living hyping supposedly haunted hotels, mansions, cemeteries and other landmarks. A mysterious postcard compels Enslin to visit an art deco establishment in New Your City, which begins a traumatic night that the scribe will never forget.

Why you should see it: This is the kind of King adaptation that will make Constant Readers happy — consistent, entertaining and, above all, creepy. This is as good a cinematic experience as a King reader could expect given the subject matter is just 40 pages.

John Cusack turns in a good performance as Enslin. He is probably the only actor who could have suppled the dark sarcasm, intensity and anguish necessary to cover the tale. In short, Cusack returns to form with a great showing here.

Last but not least, let's not overlook the fact that you'll be watching this for a scare — and you'll get it. There aren't any of those cheap tactics like we've seen in many recent horror attempts. "1408" delivers great chills and startling psychological discomfort time and again.

Why you should avoid it: This film follows patterns similar to many King stories, which could be a bad thing. There are many plot-pacing and story-telling conventions we've seen before; if you didn't like them then, you won't like them here.

You must remember that this is short story — there is not a lot of real character development. There are some compressed flashbacks to fill in backstory, but not a lot of depth. Don't expect to cover a lot of territory in bringing this one to a close.

And Cusack can turn some people away with his style and mannerisms. When he's on, he has almost universal appeal. He's on here, but you still might find some of his over-the-top reactions to his horrific trial a little off-putting and occasionally comical.

The bottom line: "1408" is going to make a great rental when it hits the shelve in a few weeks. It isn't a groundbreaking effort in cinematography, but it is pretty darn entertaining.

Also, it goes back to my overall theory of supporting entertainment. If you like seeing an actor like John Cusack taking on a role like this one or you appreciate how this Stephen King story materialized, then spend a little time and money to keep this thing rolling.

Grade: "C+" for those who want to be made uncomfortable for a while thanks to some good old-school horror.