The Fury is a very interesting (but not entirely successful) film that mixes elements of Carrie with the spy film and clandestine government drama, but the differing genres do not always meld seamlessly. The idea of ruthless government agencies seeking to harness individuals with telekinetic powers is a compelling one, but the chase aspects serve to detour the drama. Hence, while the story of Kirk Douglas' character of Peter and his search for his kidnapped son, Robin, is good (as is Peter's contact with Gillian, who also possesses powers to help him in his quest), the plot wavers. For example, an early scene sees Peter evading agent Childress (marvellously played by John Cassavetes - who is the highlight of the film), but the segment lasts for ages and a protracted attempt to don a disguise totally fails to fool watching agents and leads to street/car chases, which kind of just wastes time and takes the attention away from the more compelling supernatural aspects of the narrative. Of the central plot, it is not clear why Robin ultimately becomes monstrous (even to Peter) and Robin and Gillian's powers are never that clear or consistent (Robin seems to be on a par with Magneto at one point!). Still, the acting is very good, the idea interesting (as is the John Williams score) and the film ends on both downbeat and explosive moments. Oh, and it is certainly bloody!
