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The Lighthouse follows two lighthouse keepers, Thomas Wake (Willem Dafoe) and Ephraim Winslow (Robert Pattinson) over 4 weeks on and isolated island. Wake calls the shots, and with Winslow relegated to cleaning duties and denied access to the light, he begins a descent into madness. 

This is a slow one, which is lacking in storyline. The narrative consists mostly of escalating clashes between Wake and Winslow which are very entertaining. These arguments are excellently written and performed by the two leads, however some of the dialogue can be lost in a mix of mumbling and strong accents. Willem Dafoes performance is equally comical and intimidating- as he embodies the typical old timey British sea captain character, whilst remaining scarily authoritative. 

The film is in black and white, something which is used to great effect. In a scene in which Dafoe angrily summons the power of Triton, only his eyes and the contours of his face are highlighted. There are some truly striking images to be found here, but this use of colour also emphasises the bleakness and isolation of their surroundings. Despite being built around character, the cinematography is this film’s true strength, with some beautiful images being created both out of the mundane setting of the island and the more surrealist landscape of Winslow’s dreams.

This isn’t one for people expecting much of a story line. This film is mostly built around creating atmosphere and intense character interactions. It’s a tangible experience- one that will make you feel as if you are there on that island feeling the wind on your face, and smelling the sea air.