My quick rating - 5.5/10. This is a film that promises psychological depth and thrilling suspense but doesn't quite hit the mark. Set against the bleak backdrop of a 1964 Massachusetts winter, it follows its titular character Eileen (Thomasin McKenzie), a young secretary at a prison, as she becomes infatuated with Rebecca Saint John (Anne Hathaway), the captivating new counselor. Their relationship takes a dark and twisted turn when Rebecca shares a disturbing secret, propelling Eileen into an unsettling moral quandary. The highlight of the movie lies in the performances of Hathaway and McKenzie, who bring their characters to life with nuance and intensity. Hathaway’s Rebecca exudes a magnetic charm, while McKenzie’s Eileen conveys a quiet desperation that perfectly mirrors the film’s wintry, oppressive atmosphere. The cinematography is another highlight, effectively capturing the starkness of the 1960s setting and the emotional coldness of the story. The film’s willingness to delve into disturbing themes and shocking twists may resonate with fans of the source material, though familiarity with the book is not required to grasp its themes. I unfortunately had not read it through so I cannot say that with too much confidence. As expected, these strengths are undermined by significant flaws. The pacing is slow and uneven, with long stretches where little happens to build suspense or drive the story forward. What should have been a tense and gripping psychological thriller instead feels inert, with a lack of urgency or intrigue. The climax, which should have tied the story’s threads into a meaningful resolution, instead leaves much to be desired. The ending feels implausible and unsatisfying, raising questions about the film's overall purpose. While it aims for ambiguity, it instead lands in frustration, leaving you wondering, “What exactly was the point here?” Despite stellar performances and an evocative setting, Eileen struggles to deliver on its psychological thriller premise. Its sluggish pacing, lack of tension, and unsatisfying conclusion hold it back from being a truly memorable experience. Fans of the book or those intrigued by its unsettling premise may find some value, but others may be left cold. I still was entertained enough by the positives even though I expected more from such a talented cast.
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