7 out of 10
 

Films that take place or involve aeroplane have become a common staple in recent years. From the Airport series to Passenger 57 air travel has been relegated from a means of travel to where action and drama takes place. Flightplan, by director Robert Schwentke, takes place almost entirely on a plane where everything is not necessarily what it seems.

Kyle (Jodie Foster) is a loving mother who is traveling from Berlin with her daughter after the accidental death of her husband. As they slowly become relaxed on this transatlantic flight, Kyle soon discovers her daughter has gone missing. She begins to search for her daughter frantically while being told by the crew of the plane that her daughter is in fact not on plane and deceased. Kyle soon pieces together that she may either be going crazy or there is a larger conspiracy happening. This leads her to a secret that could affect every passenger onboard.

Flightplan is a very strong film, but falters as the film reaches its climax. The plot is well thought out and there are many twists and turns that will keep the audience guessing. Foster, who seems to be revisiting her role from Panic Room, is quite believable as the strong willed mother protecting her child. Peter Saragaard, the air marshal on the plane, acts as devil's advocate and is Foster's main foil. It's his subtle techniques that make the viewer not want to believe Kyle's story. Schwentke's direction has a unique style and ability to make the viewer feel claustrophobic in each of the settings. He also gets pretty decent performances from Foster, Saragaard and the rest of cast.

Flightplan is a filled with suspense and good performancesif you can overlook the ending.