Movie Review: Prisoners (2013)
Written by Anthony Sargon
Good luck finding a movie with better performances than "Prisoners" this weekend. A dark and brutally honest look into the lives of parents whose kids have been kidnapped, "Prisoners" is an intense and extremely powerful film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
The story revolves around the kidnapping of two young girls during thanksgiving, and more specifically, the police investigation that ensues, as well as the actions of a very angry and desperate father.
"Prisoners" in an incredible film, and one that has some of the best performances this year, including what is easily Hugh Jackman’s best performance to date. Seriously, if the guy doesn’t get an Oscar nomination for this, there’s no justice in the world.
Without getting into specifics, the film is a very honest and somewhat depressing depiction of what it’s like to have a young child kidnapped. You see parents going through something no one would ever want to remotely experience, and their pain is excruciating to watch thanks to some brilliant performances, incredible writing, and on-point directing.
I’ve been gushing a lot about the acting, and for good reason. Like I said, Hugh Jackman gives the performance of his career, but he’s not the only actor who shines. Jake Gyllenhaal is great as detective Loki, and he also gives one of his best performances yet. Terrence Howard, Viola Davis, and Maria Bello also do an incredible job as grieving parents, and Paul Dano is a little too convincing as a very creepy suspect. I seriously can’t praise the acting enough.
Directed by Dennis Villeneuve, the movie is incredibly suspenseful right from the start, and the intensity does not let up a single bit during the film’s two-and-a half hour running time. The film's subject matter and running time could make it difficult for some to sit through, but I urge you not to let that scare you away.
"Prisoners" makes you seriously wonder what you do if you were in one of the character’s shoes. It brings up a lot questions about morality, and you might find that things aren’t as black and white as we like to think. My only complaint is that the climax is a tiny bit predictable, but that’s only noticeable because of how great the rest of the film is.
Anthony's Verdict:
I honestly can’t recommend this enough. Scratch whatever movie plans you had this weekend and make time for "Prisoners", you won't regret it.
Numerical Score: 9/10
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