Stonehearst Asylum

An isolated lunatic asylum is the setting for this gothic, twist-laden mystery thriller. Set in 1899, it begins with the arrival of medical school graduate Edward (Jim Sturgess) who is looking to gain some clinical experience. Following a quick tour, he is introduced to the resident superintendent (Ben Kingsley), a man whose methods are extremely unorthodox. Before long, however, Edward discovers that his "superior" and the other employees aren't actually members of staff - they're mental patients who have managed to seize control of the institution. This discovery ensures that Kingsley gets plenty of screen time, which is good for the film since he elevates each and every scene he appears in. Unfortunately, though, despite the presence of Kate Beckinsale as Eliza Graves - the inmate who doesn't deserve to be there - the tone is uneven and the various plot twists aren't as effective as they need to be, resulting in an underwhelming experience that fails to live up to its early promise.