DVD Corner

Eileen Blu-ray Review

“Eileen” feels like half a movie. 

Based on the novel by Ottessa Moshfegh, “Eileen” is set during the 1960’s in Massachusetts. The story, as you may have surmised, revolves around the titular character who is stuck in life. She’s lonely, she works at a correctional facility for teenage boys where she is essentially ignored, and she lives with her abusive and alcoholic father who was a former Police Chief.  She also frequently has dark daydreams/fantasies which make you wonder about her mindset. Eileen’s life is changed when she meets Rebecca- a new psychologist at the correctional facility. The two bond and Eileen becomes rather enamored with her. The story takes a dramatic turn when Rebecca invites Eileen over for Christmas Eve. The invite, as it turns out, is not what Eileen expected and matters quickly get out of hand.

Written by Luke Goebel and author Ottessa Moshfegh and directed by William Oldroyd, “Eileen” is a slow-burn mystery-thriller that starts off as an intriguing Hitchcockian psychological tale about obsession and desire, but just as it starts getting going…it ends. It leaves you wanting more and not in a good way. Once the ending rolls around, you feel like the second half should be starting up as Eileen’s character arc changes and propels the character in a new direction. Unfortunately, we don’t get to see what happens and are merely left wondering. To some, the ending may be bold, but to me it feels like a cop-out. It’s the type of non-ending that frustrates more than anything else. 

On the plus side, the acting here is top notch. Thomasin McKenzie (best known for “Jojo Rabbit” and “Last Night In Soho”) continues to impress in her young career. Not only does she have real range, but she proves she can lead a movie too. Anne Hathaway gives one of her best performances in years as Rebecca. Her chemistry with McKenzie really carries the movie even when it falters. Veteran character Shea Wigham also shines as the vile, broken father of Eileen.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 1.65:1 1080p. How does it look? The transfer is a little too fuzzy for my liking, but is adequate overall.

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? The 5.1 track isn’t going to win any awards, but is satisfactory.

The lone extras are trailers for “Ferrari” and “Origin.” 

February 13, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Anne Hathaway, Eileen Blu-ray Review, Eileen Movie, Thomasin McKenzie, thriller