Complex, thoughtful crime drama set in the land of the midnight sun

Rating: 8/10 (20 October 2002)

Set in Alaska, this film makes good use of the delirium caused by the midnight sun, using it in a "Telltale Heart"-esque context. The cast is outstanding, with Al Pacino as the cast's pater familia, Hillary Swank as an eager rookie cop, Robin Williams turning in a disconcertingly creepy performance as a bad guy, and interesting supporting players including Maura Tierney and Jonathan Jackson (be on the look out for good things from this up-and-coming young actor). I recommend seeing it on the DVD. Christopher Nolan, Insomnia's director and the imagination behind Memento, twists time in the commentary track. The film is presented in the order shot, rather than in the order of the script or finished film. This is an approach I wouldn't mind seeing in more commentaries. Very thought provoking!