The Lighthouse (Blu-ray)

I’ve made no secret of the fact that The Witch is easily my favorite horror film of the last decade, and without exaggeration, one of my favorites of all time. What Robert Eggers achieved with the film was an experience of singular, ominous, all encompassing dread, and no matter how often I watch it (and that is often!), it never loses its impact. Naturally, when The Lighthouse was unveiled, starring quite literally two of the greatest, most fascinating actors working today, I was excited. I’m beyond psyched to say that The Lighthouse not only met, but vastly exceeded all of my wildest expectations. While not a horror film in the strictest sense of the word, the film is laden with the same ever present sense of imminent threat, a forbidding darkness that permeates all. The same visual poetry that made The Witch so distinctive and memorable also remains, made distinctive by the perfect decision to film in black and white, 35 millimeter film. Eggers most definitely has a style, and it’s tendencies are present in full force here. The sense of total isolation is complete. The epic, poetic, restrained at times, yet often larger than life performances from the two leads is a mesmerizing highlight of their abilities. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the film visually jaw dropping. Everything about the way it looks, sounds, and most importantly, feels, is luscious and full of manic zeal. I’m utterly, completely in love with this film, and it’s a phenomenal companion piece to The Witch. To say I’m hopeful about the long in development Nosferstu remake would be the definition of an understatement, and I’m officially waiting impatiently for The Northman. WATCH THIS FILM!!!