This is not a horror film. To say more would spoil the surprise(s).

Instead, know that Stonehearst Asylum is frequently fantastic, utterly assured, and fully committed to pulling one genre switcheroo after another.

A gorgeous, convincing aesthetic adds to Thewlis, Kingsley and Beckinsale gamely chewing everything in sight (with the latter, especially, seeming like a stiff breeze would cause her to shatter), meaning it’s never been so sensible to love madness.

It’s only Sturgess’ protagonist who occasionally lets the side down – the result of dialogue that serves to slow proceedings rather than allow them to barrel merrily along.

A twisty-turny labyrinth of ideas that always knows the way out (even if we don’t), and ensures there is a whole lot of fun in getting there.

RATING: 3/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Jim Sturgess, Kate Beckinsale, Ben Kingsley, Michael Caine, David Thewlis

DIRECTOR: Brad Anderson

WRITERS: Joe Gangemi (screenplay), Edgar Allan Poe (short story)

SYNOPSIS: A naive young doctor visits an asylum with intent to study, but all is not as it seems…