Along Came a Spider MPAA Rating: R Entertainment: +3 Content: -1 1/2

This sequel to KISS THE GIRLS brings Morgan Freeman back to the role of Washington D.C. psychologist/detective and author, Dr. Alex Cross. Eight months after the violent death of his partner in a botched undercover assignment, the kidnapping of a senators 12-year-old daughter from an exclusive school draws Cross out of retirement. Cross teams up with Secret Service agent Jezzie Flannigan (Monica Potter), who was in charge of the schools security, to track the kidnapper. But the kidnapper seems to stay one step ahead as he seeks a place in the history books, just like the kidnappers of Charles Lindberghs infant, and time is running short as he plays cat-and-mouse with Cross. Based on the novels by James Patterson, this tense mystery thriller has a few surprising twists to keep audiences guessing along with Dr. Cross.

Although the film opens with the pursuit of a sexual predator who makes crude remarks and a violent car wreck that takes the life of Cross' partner, the film shows Cross to be more of a thinker than action oriented. Even in retirement, his hobby is building model sailing ships. And his opponent is equally adept at careful thought and planning as he takes two years to execute the kidnapping. There are a few violent deaths and, in one scene, gunshot threats to a young girl, but most of the film follows Cross as he threads together clues. Surprisingly, virtually no sexual content appears beyond the opening scene. Dr. Cross sets an excellent example for viewers as he respects others, including his opponent and never raises his voice or uses obscenities. Unfortunately, a few other characters express themselves with some obscenities. The senators wife also chews out an agent for his attitude toward Cross. If not for the offensive language and a few overly graphic wounds, ALONG CAME A SPIDER could be recommended.

Preview Reviewer: Paul Bicking
Distributor: Paramount Pictures, 5555 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90038