10 Cloverfield Lane is a prime example of the benefits of not knowing much about a film prior to watching it. A lot of the enjoyment to be had here comes from the constant chaos and unpredictability of the narrative and if they had disclosed significant plot details in the trailer, I'm not sure if the film would've been as effective. While I clearly can't get into much detail without ruining the central mystery that drives the film, the film's largely claustrophobic setting and the relentless uncertainty that surrounds the plot allows ample time for the skeleton crew of actors (the film only features three major characters) to show off their wide range and tremendous ability. Mary Elizabeth Winstead once again demonstrates why she is the most unheralded young actress in Hollywood right now with her striking turn as the film's reluctant heroine, relative newcomer John Gallagher Jr. strikes gold as the film's comic relief and moral compass and John Goodman is equal parts terrifying and sympathetic as the mysterious man who built the bunker the three main characters are held up in. Strong acting is essential to making intimate films like this work and as evidenced by their terrific work here, Winstead, Gallagher Jr. and Goodman all seemed to have a perfect understanding of that unwritten rule. The film does lose a bit of steam with its completely absurd and unfitting climax, but the sheer strength of everything else leading up to it makes the messy conclusion forgivable. With its constantly thrilling narrative and remarkable acting across the board, 10 Cloverfield Lane is the first film of 2016 that managed to leave a strong impression on me.
4/5 Stars
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