The Number 23

Perhaps numerologists will enjoy this flick more than thriller fans, as the latter may find themselves first confused and then dumbstruck by the absurdities of The Number 23, an intricate but ultimately mind-boggling yarn tangled up in its own excesses. Jim Carrey plays mild-mannered dog-catcher Walter Sparrow, who—after reading a cryptic manuscript given to him by his wife Agatha (Virginia Madsen)—becomes increasingly obsessed with the supposed mystical properties of the number 23, not to mention unnerved by the fact that some events described in the book appear to uncannily correspond with those in his own life. While director Joel Schumacher elicits convincing performances from his principal players, the story eventually collapses from sheer preposterousness and ultimately descends into self-parody. Not recommended. [Note: DVD extras include both the theatrical and unrated versions of the film, a trivia track viewing option, audio commentary by director Joel Schumacher, “The 23 Enigma” featurette (25 min.), a 22-minute “making-of” featurette, 16 deleted scenes that include an alternate ending (15 min. total), “Creating the World of Fingerling” on production design (11 min.), “How to Find Your Life Path Numbers” numerology segment (11 min.), and trailers. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a disappointing film.] (E. Hulse)