Film Review: Insomnia (2002). Director: Sir Christopher Nolan, CBE.
Religion teaches men to live without judgment, and that is a problem. Religion talks the talk but does not walk the walk. If everyone were to adhere to religion, there would be no criminals. While laymen judge others to pass their time and avoid confrontation with their insecurities, policemen, lawyers and judges assess characters to foment the interests of the society.
Different functionaries require a different mindset to work in the most productive manner. While doctors need to be optimistic despite the pessimism they are surrounded with, the Police are required to dive into negativity and be on their toes to ensure the positivity of the populace and rid the society of as many recalcitrant elements as possible. This task is no less than setting the Thames on fire, but carries an equally rewarding mental satisfaction for the risk taken.
Police Detectives Will Dormer and Hap Eckhart are called to Nightmute, Alaska to find a serial killer after the murder of a teenage girl. As Will tries to get to the bottom of the situation with his robust career and experience, knowing that he must expect the unexpected, every step towards finding the killer takes a toll on him personally.
The film captures the rapt attention of the viewers, right from the beginning. The viewers empathize with Detective Will, a man of few words when he is transferred to the chilly and quaint (yet poetically and aesthetically beautiful) Alaska from the humdrum of the happening California. Will is the quintessential detective in his experience, his condescending guidance to Hap and the young Detective Ellie Burr and his calm attitude towards, but quick actions in being one step ahead of the killer.
While modern-day series like 'Mindhunter' (streaming on 'Netflix') explore crime and criminology, 'Insomnia' (2002) does it way back. The film limns how fast, tricky, downright whimsical and unreasonable serial killers can be, and gives the viewers a peek into the criminal psyche. The film is artistic and subtle in its depiction of depravity of the human mind.
The art direction of the film is wonderful. Though the film was originally shot in Canada, the cameraman's lens succeeds in portraying it as Nightmute, Alaska. The locations of the film are beautiful, yet spooky and isolated. The direction by Sir Christopher Nolan, CBE is par excellence as usual. The little or no background music combined with heavy snow and simple and profound script makes the film a must watch.
The performances of Al Pacino as Police Detective Will Dormer and The Late Robin Williams are impeccable. The absence of profanity makes the film a complete family watch. Even though Hillary Swank's part as Detective Ellie Burr is small, it's effective and the viewers adore her dedication.
Overall, 'Insomnia' (2002) is subtle and has novelty in convention. It is a true cinematic experience characterized by a gripping story.
MY TAKE: 10/10.
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Excellent review , as you said the film is really very engaging
ReplyDeleteGood portrayal of a wonderful cinema experience. It will be a pleasure to see it once again on the back drop of this review & get more insights in it.
ReplyDeleteI thoroughly enjoyed the movie. Thanks
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