Tags: Chris Evans | David R. Ellis | Jason Statham | Jessica Biel | Kim Basinger | William H. Macy

This is that time of year where most of the movies stink (points to Resident Evil), but this one here really held my interest.

It's not too often that Hollywood actually comes up with an original story or script anymore, instead deciding to churn mediocre flick after mediocre flick out, all with the same tired storylines (see also: Anacondas, Alien vs. Predator, the whole Without a Paddle schtick that's been done a million times before).

If a movie can be successful by just being a good thrilling fun night out, then there you have it. The problem too often, is that people avoid non blockbuster types of movies because the paid critics may not have given a particular film A+ reviews. That is the situation with Cellular (check out New Line Platinum Series). A movie that will give you both your money's worth and a great night out at the movies.

It has solid performances by all involved and a story that will keep you along for the ride. And you know what, that is all it ever set out to do. Buy some popcorn and for the love of god, don't talk during the show.

The story goes like this: A random wrong number to his cell phone sends a young man into a high-stakes race against time to save a woman's life. With no knowledge of Jessica Martin (Kim Basinger) other than her hushed, panicked voice on the other end of the tenuous cell phone connection, Ryan (Chris Evans) is quickly thrown into a world of deception and murder on his frantic search to find and save her. Jessica's life is in his hands, but what is waiting for him on the other side of the line, and what will it cost him to find out?

Does it sound slightly formulaic? Sure, but this one here was a bit different, though. The acting, while not spectacular, was very well done. The action scenes have all been done before, but they were placed at the right spots of the movie, and none of them dragged on too long. Visual effects about average, but again - well done.

The real accomplishment of this movie was the character development, however. Most movies these days, you're basically PRAYING for the characters to die so you don't have to see them anymore. Not so with this one.

You can actually get into this flick. Oscar worthy? No, but nothing this time of year will be - Hollywood is holding back for the Thanksgiving weekend. But certainly better than the other tripe out there right now.