Rich Bonaduce reviews “Shutter Island”
Rich’s Quickie: Maybe not a masterpiece, but still dang good filmmaking.
Certified: Both Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio are in fine form in this adaptation of another Dennis Lehane novel (Gone Baby Gone, Mystic River), as is the rest of a great cast. Although not a horror flick (as the trailer might suggest), with the usual surprise/shock stunts, this movie delivers intensity by allowing your imagination to fill in the gaps of what MIGHT happen around the corner or plot twist. This is a slow-boil, psychological thriller with heartfelt performances and wonderful directing that will keep you interested even if you see around the bend; it’s just so well done that it’s enjoyable even if you’ve read the novel or guess the ending.
Certifiable: The movie is on the longer side, but I did not feel unnecessary so. Again, it is more of a slow simmer, and for some of today’s audience it probably moves too slowly, especially in the beginning. However, it’s still among the best movies I’ve seen so far this year.
Movie Grade: B+
MPAA: Rated R for disturbing violent content, language and some nudity.
Director: Martin Scorsese
Writers: Laeta Kalogridis (screenplay); Dennis Lehane (novel)
