If you, like me, thought this was a picture about catching a serial killer, you are wrong.  Yes, there is a killer and we pretty much know who he is from the jump, but it's the twists and turns that this story takes that makes it an electrifying, tense picture from start to finish.  This movie had a style that we don't see much anymore and reminded me of the film noir pictures of the 40s and 50s.

The story starts with two LAPD detectives flying up to a small Alaska town to help an old buddy solve a murder. It's a beautiful little town and it's summer which means the sun never sets and it's daylight twenty-four hours a day.  Al Pacino, as the head LA cop, can't get used to not having a "night time" and can't sleep; in fact, he doesn't sleep for six days, hence the title.  His insomnia plays a huge part in the story due to "other" things on his mind.  His performance is Oscar caliber in both style and substance in a role that is vulnerable and at the same time somewhat ruthless (maybe). Robin Williams is the killer.  The picture never makes a secret of that, though we wonder where it will all end.  I have never liked Williams because of his style of acting.  The uffoonery and silliness is just not my style.  Well, there was none of that in this movie AND I predict he will also be there when the nominations are announced.  He was great and the depth he showed is above anything I have seen from him in the past.

The other two performances that must be mentioned are Hilary Swank who was excellent and thoughtful as a rookie Alaskan cop (cute too, believe it or not) and the Director, Christopher Nolan, who proved himself with
'Memento" and outdid himself with this picture.  It was "dark" and sultry and had an Hitchcockess tint to it.  Not artsy but stylish. From now on, if his name is on it, I'll go see it.

"The end justifies the means".

RECOMMENDATION:  No love, no sex, no special effects or explosions.  LOTS of suspense, surprises and some violence which adds up to a winner WELL worth the admission.

TWO BROODING AND SLEEPLESS IN ALASKA THUMBS UP!!!  (cold too!)

Movie Review © 2002 by Terry Anderson