Neil LaBute can be one twisted son of a bitch. He's also one of the most compelling writer/directors working in film today. While his dialogue writing style reminds me of David Mamet, most of his plot lines feel very personalized. He was either dumped on in his youth or was close to someone who experienced much heartache. Of course as of late, LaBute has changed direction with broader fare like Nurse Betty and the exquisite Possession.

The Shape of Things (based on LaBute's play) is a return to the brutal, dysfunctional realm of In the Company of Men and Your Friends and Neighbors.

The story focuses on a shy college student (hilariously played by Paul Rudd) who strikes up an unexpected relationship with a free spirited art lover (played by Rachel Weisz). Rudd spends a big portion of the film questioning Weisz's love for him rather than just living for the moment, but before long, his new love has him comfortable in his shoes. Things become somewhat complicated when Rudd's best friend (played by beauty Gretchen Mol) begins to doubt her own relationship with her cocky fiancee (played by Fred Weller). This makes for interesting drama and some unexpected surprises.

LaBute is an absolute genius. I had no idea where this movie was headed even though I really should have. His set up is perfect and his characters are very real and extremely interesting.

And just when I thought I had this thing figured out, LaBute drops the bomb and crushes me with brutal honesty and a shrewd twist.

The Shape of Things is about a lot of things; Love, sex, friendship, being yourself, perception etc. But mostly it's about manipulation. And that's something that most of us can relate to because we've all been manipulated at one time or another.

With it's fantastic ensemble acting, LaBute's sure handed, simplistic direction, and a truly twisted screenplay, The Shape of Things emerges as a thought provoking masterpiece that continues to play over and over in my head.