'One of the best crime thrillers' from Oscar nominated director is on TV tonight
The film is being shown on television for free this weekend and fans have urged viewers not to miss out
A film described as 'one of the best crime thrillers' that was helmed by an Oscar-nominated director is on TV tonight.
Prisoners, originally released in 2013 is airing Saturday December 22, at 9pm on GREAT! Movies which can be found on Freeview channel 34. Those who are perhaps otherwise occupied with pre-Christmas plans don't need to worry about missing out though.
At the time of writing the movie is currently available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
The film boasts a stellar cast with Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Paul Dano and Viola Davis. There's plenty of high grade talent behind the camera too. Two-time Academy award nominee Denis Villeneuve helmed the film before going on to direct Dune parts one and two.
The director of photography was also the legendary Roger Deakins, who has been nominated for an Oscar 16 times himself, winning twice. Deakins has worked on films including Shawshank Redemption, Skyfall, No Country For Old Men and Blade Runner 2049.
The story of Prisoners follows Keller Dover (Jackman), who faces a parent's worst nightmare when his 6-year-old daughter, Anna, and her friend go missing. The only lead is an old motorhome that had been parked on their street. The head of the investigation, Detective Loki (Gyllenhaal), arrests the driver (Dano), but a lack of evidence forces him to release his only suspect. Dover, knowing that his daughter's life is at stake, decides that he has no choice but to take matters into his own hands His desperation leads him closer to finding the truth and also jeopardises his own life.
Prisoners was received well critically upon its release, and claims an 81% score on website Rotten Tomatoes. Film fans are still full of praise of the film which is often billed as one of the most tense ever made. Sharing their thoughts online, one suggested it demonstrates Hugh Jackman's best ever performance.
They said: "One of the best crime thrillers ever. Denis Villeneuve, Roger Deakins and Aaron Guzinowski come together to deliver a gripping tale that leaves you guessing for the duration of the movie. Perfect pacing, beautiful cinematography, brilliant writing and stellar performance from every single actor. Hugh Jackman's career top performance in my opinion."
Another added: "This was one intense movie-going experience. Throughout the entire running time of the movie, the suspense never lets up. The director masterfully weaves the haunting atmosphere, and I was at the edge of my seat. The plot is a wonderful puzzle, unravelling slowly to reveal hidden layers of depth and complexity. The acting was wonderful, emotional and nuanced, with some unforgettable moments."
One person declared that the film is 'a disturbing masterpiece' and another urged other cinephiles not to miss out. They said: "If you want to watch a really, really good thriller (no wait - an enthralling, gripping masterpiece) then make sure Prisoners is at the top of your list.
"From start to finish it's an extraordinary piece of cinema with an exceptional star cast that navigate their way through a script full of shocking, suspenseful and at times, confronting twists and turns. As a huge movie buff, this is right up there as one of the finest films I've ever seen across all genres. Don't miss it!"
Prisoners airs at 9pm on GREAT! Movies, Saturday December 22 and is streaming on Amazon Prime.