Review of Prisoners (2013) by A T — 30 Apr 2014

Wow. This might be the best replicant of a Christopher Nolan or early M Night Shyamalan film (more so the religious aspects) in the decade so far (sorry Wally Pfister). Coming to mind, the film is heavily similar to Insomnia, probably one of Nolan's more conventional films, but the ideas and cinematic flair are still present here.

Again, the twist isn't too shocking (especially again if you know the pedigree of the casting....) but it's still one that keeps you guessing throughout the entire film. Jackman and Gyllenhaal really carry the movie with decent performances from the supporting.

It's sadly way too long. If the movie focused more on Loki vs Jackman's torturing, I think it could had had a slicker feel to it. Instead, you just keep wishing it go back to the story instead of the meaningless red herrings.

Overall, it's a strong movie and a recommendation (which I don't say often), but it's more a "one and done" great story like Insomnia was, versus one that needs to be returned to to find everything it offers.

There is complexity in their natures, but it overall doesn't fully reach its needed potential.