Stoker Review - Hidden Gem

Silver-celluloid often looks at the latest cinema releases but there is a film that did not enjoy a very wide release at the cinema and is now available to rent on DVD. It is a hidden gem. From the pen of Wentworth Miller, star of the 2005-2009 TV series Prison Break, Stoker stars Mia Wasikowska, Nicole Kidman and Matthew Goode. It is directed by Chan-Wook Park, director of the cult hit Old Boy, and this is an interesting pedigree that has turned out exceptionally well. Dealing with difficult subject matter, something not entirely unexpected if you are familiar with Park’s work, this is a beautifully shot, well scripted, dark, intriguing film that is well worth a watch. India Stoker (Mia Wasikowska) lives with her mother, Evie (Nicole Kidman), feeling isolated and in mourning after the unexpected death of her father. When a previously unknown and long lost uncle, Charlie (Matthew Goode) turns up, he brings with him intrigue, questions, and an unsettling environment for the family.

This film looks gorgeous from the very beginning with stunning cinematography, carefully selected shots that make this a visual treat, and an edgy off-beat soundtrack that is perfectly placed. Mia Wasikowska is excellent and carries the film well; a rising star to be sure. Nicole Kidman is on fine brittle form as India’s mentally fragile mother and the plot is fascinating, dark and exceedingly well scripted. This is a slow moving and thought-provoking film that is challenging and unusual and is a true testament to the art of film making. This said, it kept interest and intrigue throughout, and although slow-paced did not feel over long. The action of Park’s previous Old Boy and the film does not suffer for this opting to explore the motivations and psychology of its characters in all their inky darkness. This film is unusual and different and succeeds to the point that a future Wentworth Miller / Chan-Wook Park collaboration should be a truly anticipated event. Stoker is truly a hidden gem that suffered for a poor distribution at the cinema but more of this type of movie should be made and this will only be achieved through a monetary support shown in the rental market. So why not take a watch? It is well worth the price of a rental.

Four and a half stars - edgy, unusual, creepy, intriguing and captivating from the start.

Go, rent it now, what are you still reading this for?

For further information about Stoker visit here.