“Insomnia” is directed by the creator of the brilliant indie hit “Memento,” but don’t go too far to assume that his next film will be a hit too, because “Insomnia” falters in a lot of the same places that “Memento” exceeded in.
The film follows the murder case of a young girl from Alaska that brings in big time LAPD detective Will Dormer (Al Pacino) and his partner to help solve the puzzle. Also around to help is newbie cop Ellie Burr (Hilary Swank), who plays the novice kid-type cop that just happened to have studied all of Dormer’s cases in the academy and therefore thinks of him as her mentor.
Following the death of Dormer’s partner during a chase of a suspect in the murder case, Dormer receives a phone call from the murderer himself, Walter Finch (Robin Williams), claiming he has bribery information against the tired, insomnia-stricken cop.
The film’s plotline doesn’t really introduce anything new that Hollywood hasn’t used a few times before so don’t go in expecting a magical and creative movie, but it does allow for a good time at the movies. Hilary Swank has little effect on the story, while Pacino looks worn out. I don’t know if this is due to his character’s case of insomnia on screen or just because this script really has nothing uprising about it.
Robin Williams, on the other hand, has finally broken out of his shell that’s been clogged with horrible films for the past few years — this performance has rejuvenated his remarkable presence on screen. His portrayal of a darker character is just what his career needs and I can hardly wait for his next psychotic job in the upcoming film “One Hour Photo,” set to come to theaters this July.
Mystery fans will have a good time at this flick, as will die hard fans of Pacino and Williams, but if you’re looking to head to the movies this weekend, stick to “Spider-man” and “Star Wars.” See them again if you must.
2.5 / 5 Stars
Starring: Al Pacino, Robin Williams, Hilary Swank, Martin Donovan, Maura Tierney
Director: Christopher Nolan
