This tight, taut and tense 1995 thriller has a strong cast, an intriguing plot and some terrific shocking moments (especially the climatic bathroom scene), but met with mixed critical reaction. On the one hand the two leads - Sigourney Weaver as an agoraphobic criminal psychologist called in by tough homicide detective Holly Hunter to hunt down a serial killer who imitates the methods of notorious murderers - were praised for their fine performances. On the other, some critics felt they were going through the motions, with Weaver accused of over-acting.
Imaginatively directed by Jon Amiel, the film also wasn't helped by the release - in the same year - of the more superior serial killer flick Se7en, although some observers feel it's nearly its equal.