Review of Insomnia

Insomnia is Christopher Nolan’s third feature film and probably one of his weakest. However definitely worth seeing especially for the brilliant cast including Oscar winners Al Pacino, Robin Williams and Hilary Swank. Famous detective Will Dormer (Pacino) is brought down to Alaska to investigate the murder of a seventeen year old girl. During a mix up whilst trying to capture a murder suspect he shoots a fellow officer Martin Donovan (Eckhart). Knowing that he is under pressure due to accusations of providing false evidence in a former case, Dormer blames the accident on the murder suspect. A combination of guilt and inability to adjust to the 24 hour light Alaskan summer leads Dormer to develop insomnia whilst on the case, disorientating his mindset which becomes increasingly twisted. He is taunted by murder suspect Walter Finch (Williams) who has evidence of his crime, whilst fellow detective Ellie Burr (Swank) becomes increasingly skeptical about the death of Donovan.

Pacino is brilliant – in one of his best performances of the 21st century. He demanded the screen with his presence and had the perfect look for the part. Williams was also impressive in a role that allowed the comedian to show his versatility as an actor and prove he can operate effectively playing a darker role. Swank in my opinion is a wonderful actress. Most famous for her Oscar winning roles in Boys Don’t Cry (1999) and Best Picture winner Million Dollar Baby (2004), Swank plays the role of a hard working detective that uncovers the truth surrounding Donovan’s murder. What was particularly impressive about this performance was the evolution of the character throughout the film, who at the end came across as a seasoned cop who fully understood the psychological demands of the job. The direction of the movie was interesting with Nolan applying the use of silent flashbacks effectively in order to represent Dormer’s guilt. The scenery was also picturesque but chilling and helped the create the gloomy atmosphere present within Insomnia.

Insomnia is very intelligent and is an enjoyable watch. However it does not do anything new or exciting to challenge the conventions of the thriller genre. A good thriller but not a classic.