The Lodger

Based on the 1913 novel by Marie Belloc Lowndes (adapted for the screen several times, including Alfred Hitchcock's 1926 The Lodger), director David Ondaatje's version offers a thorough dusting-off and credible updating. Set in present-day West Hollywood, The Lodger follows a dogged police detective (Alfred Molina) investigating a series of grisly prostitute slayings ostensibly inspired by London's gaslight-era serial killer, Jack the Ripper. The detective's best lead is supplied by a possibly delusional landlady (Hope Davis), who suspects her boarder (Simon Baker) of the crimes. Predictably gruesome and often frightening, The Lodger boasts a terrific cast, which also includes Donal Logue (as Davis's husband), Rachael Leigh Cook (as Molina's daughter), Rebecca Pidgeon, and Shane West, who help to somewhat offset the familiar plot. A strong optional purchase. [Note: DVD extras include a 19-minute behind-the-scenes featurette, eight minutes of deleted scenes, and trailers. Bottom line: a solid extras package for an uneven film.] (E. Hulse)