Review of Instinct (1999) by Kevin M. W — 05 Mar 2014

A surprisingly thought-provoking, intriguing and well-acted film about the deep connection between humans and animals, I was surprised by how much "Instinct" surprised me. At a first glance, it's concept seems rather strange, even ridiculous, but the filmmakers treat it with astonishing care and affection.

Bolstered by interesting questions about what makes our lives similar to animals, superb performances and a haunting musical score, "Instinct" is a well-made film that's worth watching for several reasons.

Like I previously mentioned, it's story is one that could have easily fallen apart as a laugh-fest had any other filmmaker had tackled it, yet in Jon Turteltaub's hands it is very believable. Yet it isn't the people behind the camera that take the film to another level, but those in front of it.

Cuba Gooding Jr. and Anthony Hopkins deliver fantastic performances, and work so well off each other that it almost seems like they've known themselves for years. Gooding Jr. is perfectly cast in the role of an ambitious, yet caring psychologist with a deep understanding of the mind.

By turns, charming, likable and memorable, the actor is at the top of his game. Even when he has to match the great Anthony Hopkins. If there's any reason to see this film, it's for Hopkins mesmerizing portrayal of a troubled man with a dark past.

Despite having little to no dialogue in the beginning of the movie, Hopkins steals every scene he's in through intense facial expressions and a complex character. However, in the end, these performances aren't able to uplift "Instinct" into being more than just a solid, yet forgettable film.

For one, the ending is predictable, cliched and takes its roots from better movies like "The Shawshank Redemption". Aside from this, the characters lack full development and the story isn't entirely original.

Yet, the two lead performances keep hold your attention throughout the film, and the musical score is effective. "Instinct" isn't the kind of movie you have to see as soon as possible, but it's also one that may teach you a lesson or two about life itself.