[CAPSULE REVIEW]

If you think it's repetitive for film critics to keep bemoaning the awful state of teen-oriented PG-13 horror movies, imagine what it's like to actually watch them.

The latest is "The Roommate," a "Single White Female" rip-off set among college freshmen, with Minka Kelly (from TV's "Friday Night Lights") as the victim and Leighton Meester (from TV's "Gossip Girl") as the psycho. By revealing early on and in no uncertain terms that the roommate is crazy, the film avoids producing unpleasant sensations like "tension" or "suspense." By making the other character a bland cipher (one who's charmed by a would-be date-rapist, no less), the film ensures that we will not be emotionally invested.

This is perfect for the target audience: You can follow every dull detail and predictable plot device without ever glancing up from your cell phone.

Grade: D+

Rated PG-13, a little profanity, some violence, some moderate sexuality

1 hr., 31 min.

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