Thirteenth Floor, The MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +2 1/2 Content: -2

Hannon Fuller (Armin Mueller-Stahl), a computer genius, spent six years perfecting a computer generated, virtual reality world set in 1937 Los Angeles. But when hes killed, his protege Douglas Hall (Craig Bierko) is suspected. Aided by Whitney (Vincent DOnofrio), a computer operator, Hall must enter the virtual world to discover the truth and finds more than he expected. The virtual world in his mind is so real, he can feel and smell as well as see what goes on. In his real world, he discovers Fuller had a daughter (Gretchen Mol) Hall was never told about. The intriguing mystery and dual worlds provide a fascinating combination for audiences to figure out. But the plot turns become so apparent that viewers may lose attention.

The virtual world is populated with look-alike characters, although their lives are controlled by the computer. But the characters lives blur the lines between reality and fantasy. Like demon possession, when Hall enters the computer world, he takes over the mind and body of his look-alike. The computer characters are only vaguely aware of what they do when a user takes over. But the characters seem to have a self awareness. When one finds out his world is not real, he drives past a road block and sees the end of the simulated landscape. Also disturbing is a reverse possession when a user is killed in the virtual world; his virtual character takes over the users body. Some may see this as a Buddhist like re-incarnation. A Buddha statue is even seen in some scenes. Users are referred to as gods and a character says the power corrupted one user. Like many computer games, violence is overly graphic as people are stabbed, beaten and shot. One character says the killing is fun. Although no nudity is shown, sex is implied a few times and references are made to using the virtual world for sex. And the obligatory foul language is also included. THE THIRTEENTH FLOOR is not a place for discerning viewers.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Columbia Pictures, 10202 W. Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232