In a quiet American neighbourhood, two young girls go missing while walking between their suburban houses.

The police are quick to suspect an intellectually disabled man, Alex Jones (Paul Dano), whose behaviour suggests he may not be quite as he seems. But after 48 hours of questioning and with no solid evidence, they have little choice but to let him go.

Adding to the mystery, the police officer assigned to the case (Jake Gyllenhaal) makes a grisly discovery while searching the homes of known sex offenders in the area. It would seem that this simple neighbourhood hides a wealth of horrors, and the chance of finding the girls alive is fading fast.

As time passes, and fears for the girls intensifies, one of the fathers (Hugh Jackman) decides to take matters into his own hands, crossing a clear ethical line in the process. His ‘investigative technique’ and subsequent behaviour around the police, attract attention for all the wrong reasons.

Prisoners is as disturbing as it is brilliant.

It’s a difficult film to watch in that it deals with the gravest fear of many parents. The struggle to remain sane and rational when your child is missing paired with the willingness to do ‘whatever it takes’—it would seem that this can only end badly, but given the extreme circumstances, maintaining a moral standard appears just as futile as the all-enveloping sense of helplessness.

Jackman is intense as the father on the edge, and Gyllenhaal continues to add to his impressive resume. Paul Dano, who to date we’ve only seen in minor roles, is disturbing in his portrayal of the suspect most likely.

Together they create a film that is gripping and tense. Despite its length, Prisoners will hold your attention and will no doubt leave you a little more concerned about the ghosts in your own neighbourhood.

Directed by: Aaron Guzikowski
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal, Paul Dano
Rating: R
Runtime: 153 mins
Release Date: October 17
Reviewer rating: 4/5