Insomnia

An interesting comparison to the American remake by Christopher Nolan. Whilst it shares the same central plot as the American remake, they both have differing qualities and focus, and this is quite a different experience. Murkiness and ambiguity are much more prevalent here, with the ostensible hero less defined by heroics and more by his questionable actions throughout the film and, notwithstanding the brutal opening to the story, the audience remains unsure of the motives behind the central murder and the nature of the killer himself. Indeed, this film feels less concerned with the police investigation itself, largely avoiding the battle of wills between the detective and killer and concentrating more on the increasing erratic Skarsgaard. The stark cinematography and use of bright light throughout as well as the increasing disorientation of the camerawork serve to enhance the mood of the film and its characters and Skarsgaard turns in a terrific performance.