Prisoners

Denis Villeneuve's Prisoners tells the story of an extraordinarily intense and frenzied search for two kidnapped girls. A parent's worst nightmare ensues, and investigations are hindered further when the suspects and evidence confuse Detective Loki (Jake Gyllenhaal) who is forced to follow multiple leads and cryptic clues. The whole situation spirals out of control when one of the fathers, Keller Dover (Hugh Jackman), becomes enraged as the investigation seem to be getting nowhere and decides to take matters into his own hands.

Set in a small town shrouded in darkness and snow, the film has a cold, stony atmosphere that ties in with the whole situation. The characters begin to crumble within this exhausting ordeal, and the performances shine best when you see how far they're willing to go.

The mystery itself is very well done, the clues are fragmented at first but you're able to build your suspicions along with Loki as he investigates further. Strikingly realistic, the film pulls you into the narrative so that you can feel all the intensity, chaos and emotions of the characters even after the film has ended. With a story and performances that will stay with you, Prisoners is an incredible cinematic experience that's best seen on the big screen.

Tanika Patel