''SHUDDER" ISLAND

Well, my fellow Cinefolk, as promised, I did see the new MARTIN SCORCESE flick, SHUTTER ISLAND, and it was a doozy.

We all know the following basics: the film was supposed to open last fall, but it was delayed by PARAMOUNT, until Feb, so they could publicize it properly. The source material is the mystery by ace writer, DENNIS LEHANE, who has 3 movies made out of 3 of his books (i.e. MYSTIC RIVER, GONE BABY GONE and now, SHUTTER ISLAND).

The plot is simplicity itself: LEONARDO DI CAPRIO and MARK RUFFALO, play 2 cops her are summoned to SHUTTER ISLAND - which is an asylum that looks like a less-pleasant ALCATRAZ!!! - to investigate a disappearance. However, all is not what it appears to be, and by the end you're really not sure which way is up. I really can't reveal anymore, as I don't want to ruin, the delicious surprises, awaiting the viewer.

SCORCESE, is a bravura film-maker, and one can feel the influence of such film-makers as VAL LEWTON and STANLEY KUBRICK, on him.

The production values are up to SCORCESE'S high standards. His d.o.p. ROBERT RICHARDSON, is fabulous as always and he works with his usual cutter, THELMA SCHOONMAKER. His cast is flawless: BEN (why so wet baby)? KINGSLEY, MAX VON SYDOW, MICHELLE WILLIAMS, PATRICIA CLARKSON, JACKIE EARLE HALEY, and ELIAS KOTEAS.

The film will haunt u, long after you've seen it and in conclusion, all I can say is Mr. SCORCESE, it was worth the wait.

Until next time, my Cinegoodfellas,

T.T.F.N.