The Joneses

Filmmaker Derrick Borte takes “keeping up with the Joneses” to a new level in this film starring David Duchovny and Demi Moore as Steve and Kate Jones, who arrive at their new suburban McMansion with their attractive teenage children (Amber Heard and Ben Hollingsworth) in tow. The Ethan Allen furniture delivery vans have just departed, and every lavish décor detail is in place. “We're going to do some serious damage here,” Steve observes, as the four start showing off their top-of-the-line electronic gadgets, shiny cars, sports equipment, designer clothing, and dazzling jewelry to their awed neighbors. But the Joneses aren't who they appear to be; in fact they're not even a family, but rather a carefully coordinated sales unit with ambitious, conniving Kate as boss. As outlined by their handler (Lauren Hutton), the Joneses' mission is simple: “We're making a match between great products and the people who love them … You're here to sell a lifestyle, an attitude—if they like you, they'll like what you have.” While stealth marketing is a clever story concept, director Borte seems more interested in product placement than consumer conformity satire, let alone development of a believable narrative arc for the shallow characters. Optional. [Note: DVD/Blu-ray extras include deleted scenes (5 min.). Bottom line: a paltry extras package for a thin satire.] (S. Granger)