review for Backflash on AllMovie

Backflash (2001)
by Buzz McClain review

Director Philip J. Jones' emphasis on deliberate pacing and developing an arid atmosphere will put off genre fans looking for hardcore thrills; that's too bad, because Jones has done better than average by crafting an engaging story with noir-like overtones and gentle surprises that don't get in the way of convincing performances. Tough-guy Robert Patrick, cast against type as a desert-dwelling geek, does surprisingly well in a sympathetic role and Jennifer Esposito is sufficiently alluring without stooping to B-movie moll caricature. Thriller, crime, and drama audiences with patience will enjoy this bit of something different.