Shutter Island Film Review

If you always have been skeptical about what goes on in private hospitals, mental institutions and secret facilities and believe there is something hidden from general people then Shutter Island will leave you scared.

The film portrays a grim story of mental patients, strict guards, less than normal doctors and digs deep into their lives. A disturbing and a compelling adventure at the same time.

Fear grips us just in the first 15 minutes or so, the island appears to be more than just a mental asylum. Introduction to the security, patients and working staff builds up the necessary suspense. You will be so engrossed in the investigation and several other sub plots that it’s hard to judge who is playing with whom. The conclusion of the film is awe inspiring.

Few scenes needs special mention. First, where interrogative is done in secret chambers just in a matchstick light is scary. Then the interaction between the Teddy Daniels (Leonardo DiCaprio) and the missing patient in the cave really sets the story in motion.

There is deliberate lack of colors, grey and dark surroundings creates an eerie atmosphere. And when we see war scenes, people being shot, the bright red blood in the grey background is cinematography at its best.

Dreamy flashbacks and the war scenes have been filmed calmly without the usual shouting ruckus we see. This is why Shutter Island carves its own identity and stands apart from movies based on similar themes.

A music note which is repeated during several twists and turns we see during the film is used with perfection. Set in real locations works in favour as long distance picturesque shots have been filmed with great ease.

The only problem with this film is that it’s long and the narrative is detailed which will require immense patience. There are several subplots and one can easily get confused but that is the whole aim of the film.

Leonardo DiCaprio (as Teddy Daniels) has given one of his best performances till date. He will make you feel for himself till the very end. From sea sickness to nightmares he suffers, the influence is hard to deny.

Mark Ruffalo (plays Chuck Aule) as Teddy’s associate has a done a convincing job. He confuses us with his character and we can’t make up our mind on whose side is he after-all.

Ben Kingsley (plays Dr. Cawley) comes as a hateful doctor who is hiding something sinister. His acting could not have been better.