Isolation isn’t the eerily atmospheric thriller its case would have you believe it to be; instead of crafting a scenario where the creepiness gradually builds to a crescendo with a shocking reveal, Isolation lays its “twist” right out in the open and then works towards it as if audiences have no idea what’s coming. This doesn’t completely ruin the film, because there’s just enough confusion as to the motivation of the film’s captors that you’re curious enough to sit tight until the answer is revealed. So while not ruined, the impact of the film takes a serious hit. On top of that, its exploration of the psychological impact of forced solitude never gets the wings needed to take off, it just slowly rears its head and then moves about in fits and starts. Isolation clearly didn’t translate to film the way it was intended, but there’s enough in this minimalist thriller to keep fans of the genre intrigued.
Amy Moore (Eva Amurri) wakes up in a hospital room, quarantined away from the rest of the world with no phones, televisions, or even radios. Every attempt to reach the outside world is met with stall tactics by the lead doctor (David Harbour), and her efforts to catch a glimpse of other patients in the hospital leave her with a horrifying impression of her own condition. What disease does she have? Will she ever see her father (Gregg Henry) again? What is going on in that hospital? It asks plenty of questions, but Isolation never gets the hang of masking the answers from savvy audiences who’ve watched one or two thrillers in their time.
DVD Bonus Features
There are none.
"Isolation" is on sale October 4, 2011 and is not rated. Thriller. Directed by Stephen Kay. Written by Chris Billett. Starring David Harbour, Eva Amurri, Gregg Henry.
