Unknown (2006)

Unknown (2006) is built on not entirely novel concepts: 5 people wake up in a abandoned warehouse, all having suffered temporary memory loss. They don't remember who they are or how they got there, but they do realize that they are in danger, since one of them is tied up and one has been shot. They know they should try to get out soon, since some other people are coming back to the warehouse, and they obviously have not lost their memories.
Since they don't know who they are, they obviously don't know who's on who's side. For most of the first hour of the film, this basic premise keeps the movie rolling along. As the plot develops, we are given clues in the form of memory flashbacks that occur to each of the characters. These new revelations create tension among the characters, as they find out that they can't trust each other, and yet they must rely on each other if they want to get out.
Admittedly, all of the above said are not original ideas. There are many films that play around with the idea of memory loss, and there are lots of films that are dependent on cleverly structured plot twists in general. For Unknown to work, it must show that it's twists are interesting and believable, which generally speaking, the film more or less achieves. However, the film feels unimaginative on the whole, as its twists and turns are also based on cliched themes. The plot could certainly have played out a bit bolder and less conventional, which would definitely benefit this film, since the film aspires, and fails, to be a cool and darkish crime thriller.
One reason that the film is likable is its predominantly male cast. The film features actors such as Jim Caviezel, Greg Kinnear, Barry Pepper, Joe Pantoliano and Peter Stormare, which is more than enough to support the film's acting needs. Bridget Moynahan provides some feminine support for the film, but is generally uninteresting, except during the very last twist, where there's a small scene featuring her and Caviezel.
Indeed, given the acting talent available, the film certainly doesn't do enough. Running at only 80+ minutes, it feels more like an extended episode out of a TV series than a full length feature film. I felt a lot more could be done in terms of beefing up the characters a bit more.
Overall, since the film is so short anyway, it wouldn't be a waste of time to see it. Just don't expect too much, and it'll be quite enjoyable.
6/10