“Inside” is a film that I find myself appreciating more with each passing thought. It’s certainly a trial of endurance, patience, and strength, but director Vasilis Katsoupis’ visual approach combined with weighty existential themes and Willem Dafoe's powerful performance make this one of the more intriguing (and difficult) films released this year. Art thief Nemo (Dafoe) is hired to steal five paintings from an expensive New York penthouse, but things don’t go as planned. Just a few minutes into the job, the home’s advanced security system malfunctions, trapping Nemo inside. Abandoned by his partner on the outside, he's left to fend for himself and must figure out how to escape. With no one present or even aware of his location, Nemo watches as hours turn into days and eventually months pass. He needs to find a way to survive in these luxurious surroundings before time runs out. It’s an interesting concept for a film, particularly when the value placed on art and luxury clashes with basic human necessities and survival. Nemo is surrounded by wealth but must return to his most fundamental instincts. There's opulence everywhere, from the smart home technology to priceless artwork, yet he lacks essentials for staying alive (the water has been shut off, and there’s not much food). Co-screenwriters Ben Hopkins and Katsoupis add a compelling layer to their story by posing a simple question: what truly matters—art or life? The limited setting creates a palpable sense of confinement and unease, especially since Nemo can see the outside world but remains unseen. Through the security cameras used by the owner, Nemo watches the doorman and cleaning staff for entertainment. He eventually starts to invent stories about them simply to maintain his sanity. It’s an act of voyeurism, but also a sad realization that this trapped (and slowly dying) man is forced to observe as life continues outside. There isn't much in the way of story or plot progression, and the film feels stretched out. It becomes increasingly difficult to watch as it goes on, and it would be more accessible if it were about thirty minutes shorter. Fortunately, Dafoe’s performance is so captivating that you can’t look away. This is a physically and emotionally taxing role (and one with very little dialogue), and Dafoe rises to the occasion. He's an exceptionally talented actor, especially when given demanding material. He portrays his character’s desperation, particularly as he begins to hallucinate and succumb to madness. I can’t imagine anyone else being better suited for the part of Nemo than Dafoe. “Inside” is what I would describe as a “film festival movie,” a project that seems overly pretentious, is excessively long and tedious, and is filled with irritating, obvious symbolism. There's much here that will alienate many viewers, but those who enjoy a challenge in their art will discover plenty to appreciate. Essentially, you need to either fit the intended audience or be in the right frame of mind for something like this.

Source on TMDB