A Mind-Numbing Experience! ♦ 86%

Rating: 9/10 (15 November 2013)

It took me few minutes of thought to finally realize the implication and the meaning of the title. What would've been a pleasant experience of a crime investigation story about abductors, turned out to be a mind- numbing experience, thanks to the writers for instilling the little details of life values.
Jake Gyllenhall is very good as a cop, but Hugh Jackman steals the limelight and proves he's more than meets the eye (Wolverine?). Supporting cast is good and Paul Dano is just terrific with what was given to him. There is nothing new about the story, in itself. But then it evolves into something bigger & thankfully DEEPER, which is the only reason it stands out. Other factors that sweep the experience into a great thing are the refined & genius music, fine cinematography & a brilliant direction. The period attribute is critically thought-upon and serves the main strong-point. How families react when a member disappears is shown on a larger scale.
The character study is also a point to be noted while you watch. Certain elements in the film could've be done without because the confuse more than they adhere. Except that I thought the editing could've been more strict, Prisoners is another great experience of the year. Kudos to the crew!
BOTTOM LINE: Highly Recommended! The climax is filled both with charisma & ambiguity.
Can be watched with a typical Indian family? YES
Profanity: Very Mild | Sex/Nudity/Foreplay/Mouth-Kiss/Porn: No | Violence/Gore: Very Critical | Alcohol: Strong | Smoking: No | Drugs: Very Mild