A simple story with complex subtext, Inside strips humanity to its bones. Themes of art, creation/destruction, luxury, time, and isolation evoke a postmodern, existential, and primal atmosphere. These meditations might be vague, blunt, or incomplete, but they raise compelling ideas. This is reinforced by symbolism and a slightly ambiguous ending. The minimal dialogue is meaningful, the plot maintains momentum with diverse conflicts, and the bookend redefines its message. Still, the driving force is Dafoe, who anchors emotions with intensity, finesse, range, desperation, vulnerability, brewing madness, and animalistic undertones. Consequently, Inside is an engaging mental observation.
Technically, Inside carefully fortifies its drama. Its sound informs with cityscapes, voiceovers, muffling, perspective, weather, emphasis, split cuts, surreal distortions, layers, and quiet. The free-flowing editing is punctuated by dissolves, inserts, cooldowns, montages, varied pacing, and mounting tension. Its visuals add lighting, composition, angles, focus, framing, and movement. The music uses sour piano keys, juxtaposing pop songs, and a Radiohead finale. Its modern and grand production design devolves with time, emanating its own personality. The casting is critical and the minor effects are supportive. Overall, Inside mindfully blends measured craft with earnest thought.
Writing: 8/10
Direction: 9/10
Cinematography: 8/10
Acting: 9/10
Editing: 8/10
Sound: 8/10
Score/Soundtrack: 8/10
Production Design: 8/10
Casting: 8/10
Effects: 6/10
Overall Score: 8.0/10
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