Directed and written by Paul Haggis, The Next Three Days is an edge of your seat thriller that stars Russell Crowe as John Brennan, a man who gives up everything to save his wife. Best of all, this thriller keeps you guessing throughout the movie with some great twists and turns thrown in for good measure.

Based on the French movie Pour Elle, this American remake was actually a very interesting movie and the premise behind the story is that John is happily married to wife Lara (Elizabeth Banks), however their idyllic life is soon shattered when she is arrested for murder.

Unfortunately the evidence doesn't look good for Lara. Before the victim was murdered, Lara was scene arguing with her female boss and when the evidence is collected, it is quite damning with fingerprints on the murder weapon and to make matters worse, the police discover her washing blood from her jacket. Needless to say, things are looking extremely grim for Lara.

As John continues to harass their lawyer for more appeals over the years, these are declined and he is forced to turn Damon Pennington (Liam Neeson) for help, a serial escape artist from prison. Pennington gives John advice on how to free Lara and also noting that he must be ready to move when the time is right which may involve crossing line. Love is the motive for John and he is adamant that she is innocent which causes him to do the unthinkable as this university professor crosses the line. But the biggest question is... is his wife innocent?

The build-up and tension in The Next Three Days created by Haggis and his crew is actually rather impressive to watch unfold and there is an interesting twist at the end that I didn't see coming. With so many movies trying to be dark and clever, the ending of this film was quite refreshing.

Unfortunately I cannot comment on whether the American remake is better than the original French movie but my partner and I actually enjoyed this movie. The acting was strong, the storyline was quite original and it came together rather well, thanks to the director and the cast. Compared to other thrillers of this similar genre, The Next Three Days is definitely an above average film.

Video, Audio & Special Features

On Blu-ray, the video quality boasts sharp images, vibrant colours (when used) with deep blacks and only a few errors here and there. Audio matches the FULL HD presentation and there are a few moments that your surround sound will get a workout. In terms of extras, the film comes with commentary by Haggis, producer Michael Nozik and editor Jo Francis plus a making of, interviews with the cast, outtakes and a mini documentary entitled "True Escapes for Love" which attempts to normalise the premise. The extras are a little light but still entertaining.

Special Features
The Men of The Next Three Days
True Escapes for Love
Cast Moments
Deleted Scenes
Extended Scenes
Bump Key Video
FILMMAKER'S COMMENTARY
THEATRICAL TRAILER

All in all, The Next Three Days is a relatively enjoyable film that has a few twists and turns along the way. There are some moments that are a little unbelievable but for the majority, sit back and enjoy the ride. Russell Crowe however is definitely the star of the film who successfully plays a realistic man caught between a rock and a hard place.

Definitely one to check out if you enjoy well made thrillers.