The lives of two families are turned upside down when their young daughters are abducted on Thanksgiving Day. The only lead is a dilapidated RV that was sighted on the street. The detective heading the investigation comes with a reputation as having never failed to solve a case, but as the days pass by one of the parents, becomes disillusioned with investigator’s approach in the case and decides to take matters into his own bare hands.
Language:
English
Running Time:
153 mins
Rating:
R
Release date:
20 September 2013
Directed by:
Denis Villeneuve
Produced by:
Broderick Johnson
Kira Davis
Andrew A. Kosove
Written by:
Aaron Guzikowski
Starring:
Hugh Jackman
Jake Gyllenhaal
Viola Davis
Maria Bello
Terrence Howard
Music by:
Jóhann Jóhannsson
Shot by:
Roger A. Deakins
Editing by:
Joel Cox
Gary D. Roach
Distributed by:
Warner Bros. Pictures

What’s Hot

  • Hugh Jackman as Keller Dover delivers an unforgettable performance as the parent whose belief never ceases despite going through every parent’s worst nightmare. Keller’s exhibition of a myriad of emotions such as fear, self-belief, restraint and anguish leading to revenge, are so compelling, that one feels this role is way ahead of his Oscar-nominated Les Misérables role.
  • Jake Gyllenhaal’s portrayal as Detective Loki consists of unique subtleties such as his forever twitching mouth, blinking eyes, little potbelly and showing confidence with a twinge of vulnerability. This differentiates him from the cops we have seen previously on many films. His calm demeanour counter-balances Keller’s rage wonderfully.
  • Strong performances from Viola Davis & Terrence Howard as the Birches, who show helplessness when confronted with the violent Keller. Viola Davis & Melissa Leo also play their respective parts to a T.
  • Special mention must be given to Paul Dano (who has previously delighted us with spectacular performances in Little Miss Sunshine & There Will Be Blood) for playing such a complex role in an extraordinary fashion.
  • The team of writer Aaron Guzikowski & director Denis Villeneuve have done a fabulous job keeping us guessing until the very end. Veteran cinematographer Roger Deakins, a frequent collaborator with Coen Brothers, shows his expertise in the bleak snow/rain shots. Even though the movie runs for 153 mins one never feels the editing is inadequate.

What’s Not

  • The movie might not appeal to action-freaks who are looking for a Taken-like experience.
  • The modern-movie-watcher will be displeased about the length (153 minutes) of the film. But once one sees the film, this notion would be dispelled, as the film grows on you as time progresses.
  • There is disturbing violent content including cruelty that borders on savagery and a lot of swearing (which is actually warranted to highlight the desperation) leading to an R rating for the film.

Badges

Verdict

Verdict Stamp

Prisoners is a grim, terrifying, drama thriller that examines the thin line between good and evil supported by powerful performances and a mazy script.