Shutter Island

I've seen Shutter Island twice and I enjoyed it both times. The second time was actually more fun because I knew the surprise ending and could look for the hints about it, the clues that led up to the twist! With the exception of corny lines at times (but it was set in the 50s, so that is to be expected...) and SUPER disturbing subject matter that made me bawl my eyes out during the last 30 minutes I loved the film. I LOVED the cinematography and the art direction; there were some beautiful visuals! Overall, for a Scorsese film, it was a little below average; why, I couldn't say. I really don't know why I thought it was subpar compared to The Departed and Mystic River, but it was. That doesn't make it a bad film. A below-average Scorsese film is still a superb film. Overall, the performances were brilliant. Leo is always spectacular; it's almost annoying how good of an actor he is. Ben Kingsley was wonderful, so chilling. His calm manner compels you to listen. Mark Ruffalo gave a surprisingly understated performance that is awesome to watch the second time around. The only week link I'd say is Michelle Williams. She really only comes into her own at the end of the film. Granted, her character is not particularly written very well until the last half hour and she just has random appearances all over the place and we're not quite sure who she is as a character. So... you have to take that into account. As an actress, I like her very much. She just had an awkward role. I'd recommend this movie to everyone but the people who are easily upset by traumatic events (there are SO many!) Go see it. You won't be disappointed.