User Reviews

This movie was both critically and financially panned. Why?

Two words. The Matrix.

The Thirteenth Floor is a good movie. No, it's not "The Matrix" all over again, but it wasn't trying to be.

This is what happens when two movies of similar type are released in close proximity. The first one always has a jump-start on the second by means of box office success and pleasant reviews. That's why I think "The Thirteenth Floor" was branded as a bad movie. People had already seen "The Matrix" with it's knock-out special effects, cast and action. They weren't open-minded for a movie on the same genre branch. So The 13th Floor was said to be 'a bland, pale imitation of the Matrix'.

"The Thirteenth Floor" doesn't have a star-studded cast. Yes it's cast is mostly regular supporting players, but they work well with the material. So there's no kung-fu ass kicking scenes, so what! There's great atmosphere, a intriguing story and a real nice plot twist. To me that makes up a very fine movie. So I ask what was so very wrong with "The Thirteenth Floor" that made critics turn away and made it tank at the box office? Really it's people's unwillingness to give a similar movie a chance and instead opting to take the easy route and branding it as a "rip-off". Which is their loss unfortunately.

The Thirteenth Floor is one of those films that has gotten lost under all the more well-known films of the late nineties; and this is a shame, because it's a damn sight better than a lot of the films that always receive praise from the critics. Not everything in this film works, and for that reason and others; it's no masterpiece, but you've got to admire The Thirteenth Floor for it's originality, and it's ability to pull a coherent plot out of a scenario that has 'disaster' written all over it. The film is based on the book "Simulacron-3" by Daniel F. Galouye, which is the same book that inspired Rainer Werner Fassbinder's "World on a Wire". Whether or not this version is better, I can't tell you having not seen Fassbinder's version; but I can tell you that this version is worth seeing. The film follows the death of a computer programmer. He was working on a computer simulated world before his death, and his colleague; Douglas Hall, believes that the programmer left the key to discovering his murderer inside the virtual world...prompting him to go in search of it.

The film works both as an entertaining science fiction flick, and a thought provoking drama. The film asks questions about the value of life and the ills of playing God; and although these questions have been asked by many films many times before; here, it's done so well that you forget that and ask yourself these questions all over again. The twist at the centre of the movie extremely well worked, and after it hits you'll ask yourself how you didn't guess it sooner - and that is testament to the excellent plotting preceding it. Despite being a science fiction film, there is very little in the way of special effects in this film. However, the movie makes up for this with the excellent way that 1937 Los Angeles is created - it's easy to buy into the film's multi-world plot, and for that reason; it doesn't need special effects to work. The acting is largely good, with Craig Bierko impressing in the lead role. Vincent D'Onofrio, Gretchen Mol and 24's Dennis Haysbert, who is excellent in his small role, support him. On the whole, this isn't brilliant or a masterpiece; but as far as modern Sci-Fi goes; this is one of the best I've seen.

I am a child of the 50's, and spent my preteen years feasting on all the classic sifi gems, such as " The day the earth stood still", "Forbidden Planet' etc. The 13th floor reminds me of those movies. This movie has been compared to the matrix, and that is unfair, Special effects are fine, but when they become the focal point of the movie, I think film suffers because of it. I liked the 13th floor because it didn't get caught up in all that technology and reallied on a great script, and a wonderful ensemble cast. I would highly recommend this movie to all, especially if you prefer the old "War of the Worlds" over the new one.

As the last millennium comes to a close and a new one opens, the science fiction genre seems to have latched onto a brand new narrative format - the cyber/techno thriller, wherein characters are free to wander in and out of virtual reality worlds and are even forced to call into question the validity of the world we have hitherto smugly referred to as "reality."

In 1999 alone, this theme has been explored in "The Matrix", "eXistenZ" and "The Thirteenth Floor." Actually, of the three, this is probably the most intriguing, intelligent and involving, successfully combining the elements of a whodunit with a clever sci-fi tale of a group of characters who drift in and out of a simulated version of Los Angeles in 1937. The plot, though complex, is spun out with coherence and ever-increasing clarity as the layers of information are slowly peeled back to reveal the larger picture. The filmmakers manage to create a sense of unbalance in the audience as we and the characters become more and more unclear as to what is reality and what is a simulation. Because the writers never lose their way, the result is a work of considerable mystery and intrigue.

In terms of art direction and cinematography, the film is a total triumph. The Los Angeles of 1937 the moviemakers have visualized on screen actually has a slight studio backlot, artificial feel to it - perfectly befitting just the kind of world a simulator would create. The photography in these sections also utilizes a slightly off color cast, nicely reflecting the tone found in color pictures of that era.

"The Thirteenth Floor" may not be a very "deep" movie, but it is an honorable addition to a newly formed genre that has not yet had time to ossify in its own conventions. Time alone will tell if filmmakers will be able to expand on this theme or whether, as with most genres, it will fall victim to its own inevitable cliches.

Christopher Nolan's Inception seems to have borrowed from the concepts of the 13th Floor, but his movie is much more widely known (and more confusing) than this one. Packs a lot into 90 minutes and worthwhile for those looking for low budget scifi gems. Although the acting is not terrible, some big name actors in this could have turned it into a hit. Visually, not overwhelming like the Matrix, but employs a more subtle film noir style that works no matter the environments it explores.

The Thirteenth Floor,in my opinion,is an underrated SCI FI classic. It ranks with Blade Runner, The Matrix & Dark City as Science Fiction with a brain. Not only does it raise philosophical questions around technology , reality and existence it is also an entertaining noir-thriller with a few twists. Visually it is similar to the films mentioned above (dark neon-soaked landscapes) however the contrast between the modern and the 1930's adds another level to the films beauty. The film is well cast (Gretchen Mol looks stunning)and Craig Bierko carries the film well. It's one of those rare films that crosses quite a few genres - intelligent sci fi - murder mystery - film noir - thriller - love story.If you enjoyed Blade Runner and The Matrix you will certainly like this film.

Not all the acting is great and some of the movie is pretty predictable however that doesn't stop it from being an entertaining movie. It isn't perfect but it is enjoyable and isn't that the whole point in movies?

It's not difficult to follow and it doesn't try to be more clever than it is.

Worth at least one viewing but remember it's over 20 years old so the technology in it is rather dated.

A small simulation set in 1937 has been created. Our main character discovers that his recently murdered partner (the simulators creator) has been using the simulation before its release for human trial. He also discovers that a message has been left in the system for him to find. A message that promises to ultimately change everything.

I recommend this film to all those who enjoyed eXistenZ etc. Fans of David Lynch will not be disappointed either. If you are a great fan of Lynch, then you will see this as an easy to follow film that has some nice turns and twists without forcing you to pause and rewind or watch again.

The film manages to persuade you of the complex simulated world without spending too much of its budget on special effects, unlike the matrix, which ultimately destroyed itself by its overdone sequels. Great set of actors here too. Ones that deserve the job title "actor" and have many creditations to their name.

I am surprised that this little effort hasn't been more popular since it manages to get a complex story line and make it very easy to follow without becoming bogged down with the characters explaining each scene (ergo the matrix).

Overall, definitely one to watch and one to own.

If you like cyber films, or time travel pieces, this one falls short.

Story line is inconsistent and lead actor isn't credible.

I saw "Thirteenth" at the theatre. Before "The Matrix".

So I was ripe for a fresh experience. And walked out unsatisfied.

The cinematography, however, is excellent. Traveling into old Los Angeles was enjoyable. I wish I'd spent more time there.

I can't put my finger on what didn't work. It's been months since I saw this film, and I'm not in a hurry to see it on video.

For some time I have been hearing people refer to to The 13th Floor, mostly when comparing to other movies of the genre like The Matrix. I finally got around to view it myself, and I was positively surprised. After seeing Matrix I and II, its hard to imagine a film that can be on par. The 13th Floor is it. Not in action, stunts or CG, but by presenting an old, yet interesting idea in wonderful pictures and a genre between sci-fi and mystery. The main protagonists "calmness and integrity" contrasts with the absurd situation the characters are in. Camera, lighting and the "textures" are excellent and the sound track perfectly completes the unique atmosphere.

Very recommended!

This film is a low budget VFX version of matrix meets source code.

Though the story has a huge potential to be a great movie it might not impress you much if you watch it now because of the following:

• The casting is poor, almost nobody fit their role.

• The acting feels disconnected.

• Camera work is uninspiring.

• You probably won't notice the score.

• Overall the movie feels like somebody wanted this movie to be great but nobody cared enough while trying to execute it.

I know I am being harsh on this movie....maybe it is due to the high expectations I had going in after reading the reviews here.

Don't be misguided by the reviews saying this movie sides with ones like Blade Runner or Matrix. While I must admit it clearly had the potential to do so, in the end, well, it just isn't so.

The plot of this film is very interesting. I wonder the book in which it's inspired must be very good. The characterization of the Los Angeles of 1930 is great. But the movie itself is very badly directed and most of the actors are just equally bad. Thi first half of the movie is very rushed what makes the characters seem pretty unreasonable and superficial.

So the in the end the result is just an ordinary movie. It's a little enjoyable, but far from memorable. I give it 5/10 for the studio having wasted such a good history.

The film, without an A-list cast, pulls off the plot well. The characters, although not really deep, are well structured, and the plot constructed with subtle complexity. The 1930s scenes are dramatically created. I found myself trying to guess the plot twists, but with little success as they unfolded. It was a good film, and richer in substance than the Matrix, and left you with a thought provoking afterthought about our own existence. Going into a movie, I hope to have avoided any prior information about the plot, and this one was well worth the purchase of the video. This could have made a great 3 hour movie to really develop the characters and the philosophical issues, however, it was reduced down to the 100 minutes time-span. I'd give it 8 out of 10.

In March of 1999 we got "The Matrix." In April of 1999 we got "eXistenZ." In May of 1999 we got "The Thirteenth Floor." They were all extremely similar, and if I had to rank them then it'd be "The Matrix," "eXistenZ," then "The Thirteenth Floor" (TTF).

In this sci-fi thriller a billionaire has created a simulated world that users can enter by transferring their consciousness to their sim character. The simulated world is 1937 Los Angeles. The player could jack in and do whatever he/she pleased (think Westworld but in a digital realm). The game hasn't been officially released though upper level employees have begun to use it.

When the founder, Mr. Fuller (Armin Mueller-Stahl) was killed, his number two man in the company, Douglas Hall (Craig Bierko), was the main suspect. Douglas would have to enter the sim world to find answers while the LAPD was breathing down his neck.

This movie was dark and intriguing. Between the dimly lit server room and it being night most of the time, darkness was pervasive. The theme was not entirely unique though it had a unique spin to it. Movies such as "TRON," "Virtuosity," "Videodrome," and "Lawnmower Man" explored virtual reality with the user totally experiencing the VR world. In this movie they go a little deeper with the mystery and the reveal is a trip.

It is one of the "Underrated" movies. I liked the twist part of the movie. It was a good movie.

This is another one of those virtual reality films that came out around the same time as "The Matrix". I wasnt expecting too much from it because its rating was rather low , 6.4. The movie was surprisingly thought provoking and fascinating, perhaps more than "eXistenZ". I could tell that this film was not made on a big budget like "The Matrix", because the high tech action was missing. The cast is not first rate either, you may recognize some faces, Vincent D'Onofrio(Men In Black, The Cell), Gretchen Moll(Rounders), and Armin Mueller Stahl(The Game, X-Files). Overall not a bad movie, ***1/2 out of *****.

The Thirteenth Floor is a thoughtful and engaging film that asks its audience to think about the difference between reality and virtual reality. The Matrix asks similar questions in an action format appealing to a wider audience, but the Thirteenth Floor exceeds the Matrix in two respects. First, it uses a thoughtful approach that establishes its characters as more than 2-D, comic-book type heroes and villains. Second, it builds longer and with more subtlety, so that the payoff comes much later.

And a delightful payoff it is. Imagine the Matrix with less action fluff, real human relationships, and a plot twist reminiscent of the Sixth Sense. Fans of thought-provoking science fiction in the vain of Gattaca will enjoy the Thirteenth Floor just as well.

Seems Christopher Nolan got some inspiration from this Pretty interesting analog to The Matrix. More of a mind bending "what is even real" approach than the action and more religious/philosophical approach of The Matrix. Instead of knowing up front what is real as a viewer, it is not until the end that you get a glimpse of what could even be considered "real".

Though it may not be the best, or as good as The Matrix was in delving into this subject, the film is well worth watching. Though it starts off slow, and may get a little tedious in parts, the second half really picks up, and works pretty well. A big messy, and the acting could have been better, but an interesting idea.

This movie is clever and fun, and relies on less action and more thought to drive it along than, say, The Matrix.

I am not a fan of martial arts films, and while I don't mind action films, I tend to find them to be a bit boring.

This is a real thinker, a sci-fi film quite unlike any other I have seen. I've always been fond of this movie, with actors who are not well-known but still manage to shine on their own. With relatively unknown actors in the film, it made it much easier to accept the reality of the story than if there were stars all over this film.

Also, there are actions scenes but they do not require unrealistic kung fu moves that go on and on for twenty minutes. Instead, there is a nod to the film noir genre, with its tough-guy characters, shady dames, and guns and fists.

If you enjoy detective films, sci fi, or just like to be entertained, this will definitely serve well.

If you are looking for some run of the mill sci-fi goof-off, go check out something else.

***SPOILERS*** Vertual reality movie where two parallel worlds exist at the same time in L.A Calif; One in the present and the other back in 1937 with the actors in the film having two different roles in both worlds.

Computer genius Hannon Fuller, Armin Muller-Stahl, had created a world of his own taking place in 1937 L.A where he can do the things that he dreamed about, go out and date beautiful young women and have love affairs with them. One day in his "Dream world" Fuller come to a startling conclusion that almost strikes him senseless. Writing down the information that he came to he gives it to bartender Jerry Ashton, Vicent D'Onofrio, to give to John Ferguson, Craig Bierko, in that world of 1937 who's really Douglas Hall in the world of reality here; A close friend as well as colleague of Fuller in the computer company that he founded.

Back in the present Fuller tries to get in touch with Douglas but is interrupted by someone who he obviously knows. When he goes outside the hotel from where he was making the phone call he's stabbed to death by that individual, what was so important that Fuller wanted to tell Douglas that cost him his life?

The movie "The 13th Floor" has Douglas going back to the world of 1937 trying to retrieve and then find out what that important letter addressed to him contained but Ashton, who later read it, was not at all cooperative with him. It took almost the entire movie for Douglas to finally find out what was so shocking that it cost Fuller his life and Ashton his sanity.

There's another piece of the puzzle put into the movie that has Fuller's daughter Gean(Gretchen Mol), who nobody in the film ever knew about, came on the scene to take over Fuller's computer company. It turned that Fuller left the company to her in his will just days before he was murdered. The truth that Douglas as well as Ashton found out is truly shocking and it explains why Fuller was murdered to keep it from surfacing. But there's an even bigger shock withing for both Douglas and the audience at the very end of the movie and it's absolutely mind-blowing.

Not bad at all the film "The 13th Floor" does in some way make sense if you try to take it seriously. Nowhere as good at "The Matrix", that was released the same year 1999, in the special effects department but a notch or two above that movie when it comes to the feasibility of the story that it's telling you.

Great idea, poorly executed, awful script, not a patch on Fassbinder's version 'World on a Wire' which is outstanding.

You've created a new simulated world, inside computer chips reality unfolds, or at least to those downloaded, executed, machine coded, but you can navigate within binary folds. A sudden loss, leaves you in charge of the machine, things start to happen that could never have been seen, people come and people go, upload, download, no one knows, it's all gone crazy as you byte into what's been.

Always worth exploring Nick Bostrom's Simulation Hypotheses and asking yourself René Descartes's question? Follow it up with Conscience by Patricia Churchland to really get some perspective.