The Concordian

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There are several reasons why someone would go see “Shutter Island”. The first reason is if they like Leonardo DiCaprio. Other people would go because the trailer depicts it as a scary action/horror movie. And then there is the third kind of people, who would go see it because it is directed by Martin Scorsese. I am one of the latter.

Martin Scorsese is quite simply a living legend. He has directed classic movies like “Taxi Driver”, “Casino” and “Goodfellas.” Scorsese is famous for his unorthodox approach and plot twists.

His latest creation “Shutter Island” is no exception. The movie is a true masterpiece, managing to stand out from the myriad of action/horror movies that have come out in the past few years.

And this is the moment for a disclaimer – if you expect a non-stop action movie with terrifying scenes, you’d better stay away from this movie. Its brilliance comes from the fear of insanity.

The idea of the island is similar to the one of the Alcatraz prison. Shutter Island is basically a mental institution for the “criminally insane.”

The island is home to 66 of the most dangerous and delusional criminals. The scene is set in the early 50’s of the 20th century, which is a very cleverly chosen time period.

A lot of the prisoners/patients have committed terrifying crimes in World War 2. On the other hand, this is also during the time when the Cold War is starting.

But I’ll have to stop here with the details, because I will spoil the movie for you.

The fact that the movie is set in the 50’s presents a challenge to a movie director, who tries to represent the era truthfully. Scorsese already has experience with movies like “The Aviator”, but with “Shutter Island” he outshines himself.

The atmosphere in the movie is incredibly realistic, even to the smallest detail.

For example, even the smoking style and manners of the characters are depicted accurately. This is praise for both the actors and the director.

Speaking of the actors, Leonardo DiCaprio does an incredibly good job establishing his character, especially considering the plot twists…which I will not give away.

Ben Kingsley, who plays the director of Shutter Island, has developed a special accent for this movie, which sounds very convincing and chilling at the same time. The rest of the actors playing the institution staff are equally convincing and scary.

The references to World War 2 and Nazi Germany are enormously well done. Along with the atmosphere of the mental institution and the insanity that soaks in the very soil of the island, “Shutter Island” presents a vision of a reality so terrifying that brings chills down your spine.

“Shutter Island” is a breathtaking experience, one worthy of watching. It pushes the boundaries of cinema, both with terrific actor play and magnificent directing. The movie receives a well deserved recommendation and praise from me. It is certainly one of the most memorable movies that I’ve seen in the past several months.

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