I'm not sure about loss of edge, as i've not been the biggest fan of his earlier films, though it does seem he's moved towards the mainstream. History of Violence disappointed me, but i did enjoy this one- brooding atmosphere and surprising international cast- Cassel?- (with noticeable and not clearly reasoned changes between Russian and English dialogue). Mortenson gives a strong performance, seems gifted with accents and languages (miklosk would be able to say), and the attempted murder in the Turkish bath is dramatic, Naomi Watts is likeable and believable but perhaps there's less depth to her character than in some of her other major roles (eg Mulholland Dr)?