Review of Shutter Island (2010) by Josh B — 21 Jul 2015

Although Scorsese is most notable for his profound and profane gangster conflict dramas, he never stays in his comfort zone--he does a gangster crime film then he does a neo-noir vigilante film, next he does a musical drama and then a sports drama.

Indeed, Scorsese has an expansive filmography, but "Shutter Island" has got to be one of his boldest outreaches--Scorsese doing a psychological thriller? Though it shows some unfamiliarity with its genre, Scorsese still succeeds in showing his grasp of the psychological thriller--not with a full, all-knowing grasp, but with a still knowledgeable grasp.

Having a stretched-out, almost never-ending surreal dream sequence and a slightly convoluted plot--consisting of an unconventional amount of subplots--"Shutter Island" satisfies a lot to make up for its said flaws.

Even though there are many subplots; they're intriguing, keep it moving at a fast pace, and all come together in the universal plot--nonetheless, even with its over 2 hour running time, it can't help but feel slightly rushed (i.

E. until an overly long dream sequence slows things down, only to pick back up again). Intense and suspenseful, Scorsese not only knows how to make you sympathize with violent gangsters, but knows how to fill you with anxiety.

Although, the anxiety would of been higher if it was more subtle. For instance, when we first open, sailing to an ominous Shutter Island; we cut to an all-encompassing shot of the Island with a score indicating its mischievousness.

But we would be filled with much more anticipation and anxiety if there was complete silence, only broken by ambient noises. More so, the score was slightly obnoxious and unsuitably bombastic at times.

Although I actually did like the score, it was when and where it was used that made it feel obnoxious. Now with a soundtrack, Scorsese still finds places to put his signature use of lyrical music, which certainly feels more relevant than the score.

Though predictable at one interval, for the most part "Shutter Island" has an eerily unpredictable plot with plenty of surprises and twists. Leonardo DiCaprio plays U.S. Marshal, Teddy Daniels and is an exceptional performance from DiCaprio's expansive career.

Essentially its one scene in particular that DiCaprio ultimately convinces you, but its a shocking scene. Mark Ruffalo plays Chuck Aule, DiCaprio's new partner. There's not much credit to give knowing that Ruffalo wasn't really given much to begin with, but he is good in his subtlety and restraint.

It does have a charming supporting cast, with performances not meant for greatness, but retain restraint. "Shutter Island" is a bold film, with which is both a strength and weakness--but more so a strength.