A Cure for Wellness (2017)

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  TheMovieDiorama

  7 / 10

  A Cure For Wellness is an overlong slightly predictable thriller that deserves some more attention. Many were left disappointed when this was initially released, the critics were displeased and general audiences were bored. In such a short space of time, it's garnered a small cult following who appreciate the style, eerie undertone and unpredictable ending. I can categorically say, I am now a member of the following. Essentially a large financial company send an employee to a sanitarium so that they can bring back a patient. Although, we all know it was never going to be as simple as that. There is a 'Shutter Island' feel to this, comparisons are inevitable. However that was more psychologically stimulating, this was more attentive to creepy imagery. Suffice to say, it was an ethereal haunting experience that I pleasantly enjoyed. An institution containing many secrets, I thought the setting and environment was suitably unnerving. An early 20th century complex disillusioning its patients that the modern world contaminates the mind and body. It was meticulously designed, particularly some of the experiment procedures. I felt the story was fairly safe and predictable for a thriller, which is its biggest downfall. When I thought all hope was lost, the final twenty minutes played out and I was truly captivated. Should've seen it coming but I didn't...bravo. The stand out is the cinematography. Wow. Everything looked absolutely gorgeous. I couldn't fault the quality of what was being produced. Even Verbinski's directing style was ingenious in places. Some may say it's style over substance, to which the technical aspects do exceed the story occasionally. But it's not enough to be classed as a detriment to the film. Dane DeHaan, Jason Isaacs and Mia Goth were all great. Various moments did have me look in shock, like the teeth drilling, eel swallowing and car accident. Yes, it's overlong and could've been cut to make a more effective thriller, but I was never bored. The sheer level of craft and attention to detail was enough to enthral me.

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