Le Phare

For much of The Lighthouse, I was not wholly sure what was going on, which I guess is deliberate as it is never quite clear what is what. What is consistent though is the sense of dread and claustrophobia that comes from the limits of the location and the fear of this unknown threat - whatever it may be. This is not quite good enough to carry the film for its full 110 minutes, because it is a bit too long, but it is enough to grab the viewer and more or less keep them there until the end - more or less.

The narrative isn't much to talk about, but the tone and tension is what works - if it works for you. The manner of delivery of this is an oppressive approach, making the viewer feel uncomfortable and not giving space to get away from it. I thought this aspect of it was done well in many different ways. The selection of the ratio, keeping the shot tight no matter what shot it was; the noise of the sea and sight of the waves; but even the dialogue - which was distracting in some ways but effective in others. The fruity accents and gruff delivery makes it hard to catch every word, but it did cause me to lean in. The performances come with an intensity and realism that sells the film even when so much of it is hard to accept on the face of it.

I do think that for a lot of viewers it will be a reasonable reaction to be put off the film - mainly because feeling uncomfortable for several hours is not an easy experience to sell. For myself I felt a bit of that - at the end that I more appreciated what it did well and how it did it than I actually 'enjoyed' the film as a film. One of those where I'm glad I watched it but am really unlikely to ever watch it again.

I discovered this film as a large puzzle. Different pieces , from the atmosphere to the acting and flavor of old fashion Gothic stories are pieces of this dark, profound, bitter not comfortable but inspired in each scene film. A film about loneliness. And one of films with the main virtue to be a return to a form of cinema who can be defined as good refuge. So, a puzzle. An admirable one.

Both characters have few if any redeeming qualities, which makes this mind twisting movie difficult to get behind. The cinematography was good, the acting was on point, the writing was quotable but I wanted in to be over half way through. I'm still confused as to what the point was, other than to convey discomfort.

This is precisely the type of film that will garner equal amounts of unbridled praise by the arthouse diehards, as well as criticism (and likely rejection) from a lot of other viewers. My opinion lies somewhere in the middle. I give it 6 stars for the undeniably outstanding acting (obviously, Dafoe)... and Pattinson is very impressive. Something new, yes. Effective at mood-setting, check. The b&w filming, the shots, the scenery itself... even the set, the old dilapidated coastal shack, all excellent. The dynamic between the two characters is raw and real. Is it a thought-provoking free-fall into insanity? Maybe. But... there is a such a fine line between "arthouse", trying something different, leaving much up to subjectivity and imagination, and... just trying a bit too hard. Mermaid labia? Hmmm. But, if part of the definition of a cinematic "success" is evoking emotion, then mission accomplished. Total despair, pity, fear, disgust, and a general feeling of creepery, all there.

This movie shouldn't just be watched casually during the day or during a social event. This is really a movie for people who enjoy film and the art of cinema. I know that sounds very pretentious, but that is the best way I can describe how this movie should be watched. It is really best to watch it in a quiet room, the lights turned way down, and anything that you would want to snack on readily available to you.

The film itself is absolutely gorgeous. But it has to be. Everything that makes this movie had to be made very intentionally, or the movie would be horrible. If this movie was in color, it would be dumb. It is the beautiful shots using light and shadow that really brings you in. Every scene filmed at night took my breath away. The scenes of the mermaid made more surreal because of the lack of color. Like I said, even a touch of color in this movie would have destroyed it.

It is weird and not a typical movie. There is no solid protagonist and antagonist. It is two men falling into madness and the surrealism it depicts. It is a lot of talking, but only between the two main characters. Like I said, not a typical popcorn watching movie. Trying to watch it when it isn't your only focus would be like trying to watch The Seventh Seal at a football party.

So, while I think this movie was beautifully made, be aware of what you are getting into. You will be watching a black and white film of two men arguing, and falling into madness together with pops of the surreal. If that is your jams, then you will love this movie.