Martin Scorsese sure knows how to have a good time.

That’s the #1 thing I’ll remember about this movie, despite the excellent acting, score and cinematography. I sat down, not expecting too much from Shutter Island, as the previews only offered what looked like a psychological thriller starring Leonardo DiCaprio. As soon as the scores thunderous hook began though, I knew I wasn’t going to get what I thought I was, well not exactly… The film is absolutely a psychological thriller in the traditional sense, and in the hands of a less competent cast and crew would have likely been an abysmal failure. What makes this film exceptional is the atmosphere and 50s film aesthetic the filmmakers have created. The feel of the music, the wet glow playing with the damp colors, every aspect of this film makes you feel trapped on an island, trapped in a 50s thriller.

With notable performances by DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Sir Ben Kingsley, Jackie Earle Haley (and even a small part featuring my favorite guilty pleasure, Elias Koteas of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, The Thin Red Line, The Prophecy fame) Shutter Island is star-studded as well as perfectly cast.

I can’t offer enough encouragement to give Shutter Island a few hours of your time, whether you’re a film buff, or just want something well done to enjoy. This isn’t a film to watch casually, but to be experienced and digested. See it before dinner, and you’ll have plenty to talk about on date night.