Bug (2007)

Directed by William Friedkin. Starring Ashley Judd, Michael Shannon, Harry Connick Jr., Lynn Collins, Brian F. O’Byrne. [R]

Intense psychological drama set almost entirely in a seedy motel room. Lonely, strung-out waitress Judd meets troubled drifter Shannon, an ex-soldier whose paranoia over government conspiracies, surveillance, experiments, and invasive bugs slowly infects her until she comes to believe almost everything he says. No matter the daring avenues the narrative ventures down, Friedkin and company make it almost uncomfortably believable, although its go-for-broke final act will turn off some viewers. Strong performances, including Connick Jr. as Judd’s abusive ex-con ex-husband. Vigorous camerawork goes astray on occasion, but maintains visual verve despite the limited space and options. Based on a play by Tracy Letts; Shannon reprises his stage role. Premiered at the 2006 Cannes Film Festival.

76/100