Film Review - Insomnia

Insomnia is an odd picture to bring out for the summer. This is a slow film, and should be, and you would think it would come out in the fall when Oscar® contenders are usually released.

This is an actors' movie. Both Al Pacino and Robin Williams are fully immersed in these characters. Pacino is the tough old cop, and Williams the accidental murderer. (Don't worry, I haven't spoiled this for you.) The point of the movie isn't whodunit, but when has a person stepped over the line? Williams' purpose in the film is to ask that important question.

Pacino isn't squeaky clean, but on a balance sheet, he comes out on the side of good. But doesn't any transgression need to be punished? Isn't that what he believes in as a Police Officer?

One must also acknowledge Hilary Swank playing the younger less experienced cop whom Pacino tosses help to. Swank too is immersed and un-like we have seen her before (the true mark of an actor.)

The story is very simple. A small town in Alaska has a murder they can't solve. The Chief of Police asks an old friend to come and investigate. During the manhunt, Pacino accidentally shoots and kills his partner; a man who was going to rat him out back home. We don't know all of why Pacino is dirty, but it's enough to end a career. Williams, the killer, sees what happened and starts twisting on Pacino's brain in phone calls. The question is "What makes you any different than me?"

The film is set against a beautiful wilderness background. You might expect to see this type of film set in the big city. This switch keeps the eye interested, as we watch Pacino's moral dilemma.

If you thought Scooby Doo was an incredible documentary, you're not going to like this. But if like me, you have been going to too many movies that suck, give this a try. Just don't eat too much sugar before the trailers.

Slight Suction!

Film Facts

Directed by Christopher Nolan

Released in 2002

MPAA Rating: R

Reviewed by Mongo