Kevin Costner has roared back into the mainstream with “Mr. Brooks.” The movie is about Earl Brooks (Costner), Portland’s Man of the Year. He has the picture-perfect family and a booming box business. But he harbors a dark secret: He is a serial killer with a separate personality named Marshall (William Hurt).

However, Earl is always Earl; Marshall is the manifestation of the evil voice in Earl’s head. One night, after killing a couple, Earl notices he has been photographed by an opportunistic Mr. Smith (Dane Cook).

Smith blackmails Brooks in a twist too good to reveal here. Meanwhile, Detective Atwood (Demi Moore) is trying to track down the Thumbprint Killer, the unofficial name for Mr. Brooks.

There is more to it, but this is a top-notch film. It’s a bit scary but mostly a strong psychological thriller with strong performances all around, especially Cook.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5