Shutter Island Spoiler Review

 

From the trailer of Shutter Island, we can learn that the story line is based on a thriller as it immediately introduces the theme of loneliness, adventure and suspicion within its first few shots. We can also learn that the story is set in the early 20^thcentuary by the use of old fashioned clothing the characters are dressed in and the small old boat they sail onto the island in. The image of the boat sailing through the mist’s towards the camera shows us that the film is based in a remote location, far from civilisation. The image of the lonely island confirms this. When the detectives are brought into the prison, the detectives question which creates suspicion within the story line. This shot also shows us the detectives giving up their guns, possibly representing the loss of hope and protection which will occur towards the ending of the film. The image of the almost bald headed woman whispering to the camera introduces the theme of mystery to the film. This also introduces the film as a psychological thriller. We are also told purely by voiceover, that a dangerous inmate is missing- the plot of the film, and that Teddy and his partner Chuck will search for them- as we are shown an image of them looking over the landscape of the island.  The theme of fear is introduced as the detective is told to ‘run’ by an inmate he questions.

Towards the middle of the trailer we begin to see images of the main character, Teddy, in what we believe to be his dreams with his deceased partner who is suffering and fading before him. However, as the trailer unravels we are to learn these are his memories and are an inmate himself- the whole plot is just a game. We can also learn that Teddy questions the whole investigation as he quotes, ‘ No-one will talk, it’s like their scared of something’ and further portrays the deep mystery involved within the story.  Tension is built through the trailer as music builds up; however, more tension is portrayed in the trailer than it is in the film. An example of this includes the shot of Teddy creeping up stairs, which happens towards the end of the film. It is only towards the end of the film we begin to see more action and tense, edge of your seat scene’s when Teddy visits the restricted prison which only the most dangerous prisoners are kept.

From watching the film and comparing it to the trailer, I think that many aspects of the story line are revealed in the trailer however are un-recognisable without watching the film itself. The mysterious images of the characters and their actions leave us puzzled, however this is what caught the audience’s attention and lured them into the storyline. However, the trailer does not reveal what the mental institutions have set up this game for… an experiment. The trailer does not reveal the experiments which the institution are taking out on Teddy, but is foreshadowed briefly through the words of psychiatrist Dr.Sheehan who quotes, ‘I built something valuable here and I am not going to give up without a fight’. I was left confused towards the end as Detective Teddy seemed to have been taken willingly into a dark tower by the psychiatrist and prison guards, after having refused prior. But maybe this was set up to leave audiences confused and makes the film more memorable. Or this could have possibly been set up to follow into a potential second film?

In conclusion, I believe that Shutter Island is a very successful thriller theme as it portrays a lot of mystery and suspicion within the film and the remote location of the storyline only adds to this. Tension is shown through the characters and the mystery is successfully portrayed as the story follows the investigation with Teddy, the victim of the experiment, who is also confused. This is also shown through the trailer, and much of the plot is revealed within the trailer too. However, I think that the trailer adds more suspense into the storyline than there is in the actual film, as it’s only towards the end that there is action creating suspense. There are although many brief suspicious activities throughout the film which leave the audience questioning the storyline they have been led to believe. I would recommend watching this film if you enjoy watching films that leave you puzzled and to figure out the storyline for yourself. But if it’s action you seek in order to create suspense within the movie, you will be left disappointed as you shall be waiting towards the very end. As a whole I would give this movie a 4/5 stars as the mystery continues to grab the viewers attention and leaves them wondering what will happen next.