The Vanishing (II) (2018)
6/10
A Psychological Thriller Set in the Depths of Isolation
30 March 2024
"The Vanishing," directed by Kristoffer Nyholm, is a psychological thriller that delves into the depths of the human mind while exploring the boundaries of survival, trust, and morality. Set on a remote Scottish island during the year 1900, the film weaves a plot full of suspense and tension.

Director Kristoffer Nyholm opted for numerous shots with closed angles, a choice that, despite lending an atmosphere of claustrophobia, may have hindered the viewer's ability to fully visualize what is happening in the scene. This preference for closed angles may have limited the spatial understanding of the environment and interactions between characters, thus diminishing the visual impact of the film.

Exploring the effects of paranoia and desperation in a claustrophobic environment surrounded by the relentless sea, "The Vanishing" delves deep into the minds of the lighthouse keepers, each carrying their own ghosts from the past. The isolation, greed for gold, and the successive deaths inflict a psychological toll on the characters, pushing them to the limits of their sanity and morality.

While the slow narrative, focused on the daily work of the three lighthouse keepers, may bore some cinephiles, this approach contributes to the construction of the atmosphere of tension and suspense that permeates the entire film. However, the slowness of the narrative may result in disinterest from some viewers, especially before the arrival of the criminals.

However, despite its qualities, "The Vanishing" may leave some viewers unsatisfied with its final resolution, which may seem abrupt or inconclusive to some. Furthermore, the intensity of the film may not be suitable for all audiences, especially due to some scenes of violence and emotional distress.

In real life, the disappearance of the three lighthouse keepers was never fully explained, leaving room for speculation and theories. Although based on real events, screenwriters Celyn Jones and Joe Bone imagined a series of conjectures to fill this gap in the story, offering the audience a fictionally intriguing narrative.

In summary, "The Vanishing" is a psychological thriller that offers an intense cinematic experience with beautiful maritime imagery, although it may be hindered by directorial choices that limit the visibility of scenes and a narrative that may drag on at certain moments. However, the compelling performances of the cast and the immersive setting ensure that the film leaves a lasting impression on the viewer.
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