Intriguing Thriller

Rating: 8/10 (9 July 2010)

During the 1950s, a U.S. marshal investigates the disappearance of an inmate at a facility for the criminally insane on a remote island. This film has has all the elements for a good, old-fashioned thriller (rain, fog, creepy old buildings, sinister characters, mysterious events), and while it sputters here and there, it ultimately delivers the goods. In somewhat of a departure from his usual fare, Scorsese creates a haunting atmosphere, helped by the fine cinematography and a clever, intriguing screenplay. Heading a good cast, DiCaprio is convincing as an earnest cop who becomes emotionally involved in his assignment, one that becomes a journey of self-discovery.