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The Lighthouse


The new film by Robert Eggers (The VVitch) stars Robert Pattinson and Willem Dafoe as two lighthouse keepers on a remote New England island in the 1890’s.



 

I’ll start by saying that if you’re looking for a “traditional” horror film or thriller, then you’re best to skip out on this one. Anyone who saw Egger’s The VVitch and enjoyed it should know more or less what they’re in store for with this entry. This is more for those who enjoy non-linear storytelling, similar to David Lynch’s style.

Ephraim Winslow (Pattinson) and Thomas Wake (Dafoe) are the only occupants of the lighthouse, doing their daily tasks to keep it functioning. They’re completely different, Wake being loud and boisterous, while Winslow is the more quiet, serious type. They eventually begin to clash due to being polar opposites (and Wake being bossy and demanding). This leads to a downward spiral for Winslow, as the tension, paired with the isolated setting, causes him to slowly loose his grip on reality.

Since Pattinson and Dafoe are the only 2 cast members, it’s up to them to carry the story, and both deliver fantastic performances that keep you engaged. Dafoe has long been known as a great actor, and Pattinson proves once again that he can deliver the acting chops.

Robert Eggers pepper the film with lots of surreal, creepy imagery that helps to set and maintain an uncomfortable tone throughout its running time. Like David Lynch, he proves to be an expert at throwing strange, fantastic elements at the audience and doing it with enough subtlety that they come off as effectively creepy. Another things that really works in the film’s favor is it’s aspect ratio. At 1.19:1, the screen is basically a block that is reminiscent of German Expressionism. It succeeds in adding to the claustrophobic nature of the story. The black and white cinematography is gorgeous to look at; there are some truly stunning shots. And finally, his use of music and sounds add to the tension.
The Lighthouse is wonderfully creepy, weird and surreal. Eggers proves once again that he’s a highly talented and imaginative filmmaker. Check it out if you’re in the mood for something different.
 
 



 


 
 

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