Importance Score: 20 / 100 🔵
Psychological Thriller ‘Red Lights’ Starring Robert De Niro Now Streaming on Amazon Prime Video
Fans of suspenseful cinema can now delve into the acclaimed 2012 psychological thriller, Red Lights, starring Robert De Niro, available on Amazon Prime Video. This movie, once heralded as a potential cult classic, features De Niro as a celebrated psychic facing scrutiny from determined skeptics played by Cillian Murphy and Sigourney Weaver. The film masterfully blends suspense and mystery, exploring the intriguing world of paranormal investigations and human perception.
Synopsis: Unmasking the Paranormal
Red Lights centers on Dr. Margaret Matheson (Sigourney Weaver) and her colleague, Tom Buckley (Cillian Murphy), two parapsychologists renowned for their expertise in exposing deceptive paranormal phenomena. Their work takes a compelling turn when they set their sights on Simon Silver (Robert De Niro), a globally recognized psychic who dramatically returns to the limelight after a long absence. Driven by intense skepticism, Tom becomes consumed with debunking Silver’s purported abilities.
The Investigation Intensifies
As Tom’s fixation on discrediting Silver grows, he embarks on a perilous and enigmatic investigation. The narrative delves into the complex interplay between what is perceived and what is real, particularly within the context of extraordinary claims. Adding another layer of intrigue, Dr. Matheson’s past connection to Silver creates a personal conflict, making her initially hesitant to engage in Tom’s escalating pursuit.
Behind the Camera: Cortés’ Dedication to Authenticity
Rodrigo Cortés served as the writer, producer, and director of Red Lights. Demonstrating a commitment to realism, Cortés dedicated eighteen months to in-depth research, meticulously studying psychic phenomena from both believing and skeptical perspectives. This comprehensive approach aimed to ground the film’s narrative in a nuanced understanding of the subject matter.
De Niro’s Methodical Approach to His Role
Robert De Niro’s dedication to his craft extended to his portrayal of Simon Silver. The esteemed actor conducted his own research, meeting with individuals who claim psychic abilities. This immersive preparation led De Niro to express a degree of belief in psychic phenomena. He stated in a 2012 interview with Empire, reflecting on his encounters, “There’s no way they could have known certain things and they said them… I have to believe that there’s something there that they pick up psychically. I don’t know what it is.”
Critical Reception: A Polarizing Thriller
Upon its initial release, Red Lights garnered varied reviews, with a significant portion of critics deeming it a somewhat predictable mystery. The film received an aggregate score of 30% on Rotten Tomatoes, a prominent film review aggregator, indicating a generally lukewarm reception from specialized media outlets.
Praise for Unconventional Suspense and Cast
Despite the mixed critical consensus, Red Lights also received accolades for its unique approach to suspense. Many reviewers commended the film for being “constantly playful and often self-aware as it navigates the familiar conventions of the genre,” delivering thrills in unexpected ways. The impressive ensemble cast, alongside surprising narrative turns, engaging suspense sequences, and effective jump scares, were also highlighted as positive aspects by numerous critics.
Availability
Red Lights (2012), the suspenseful thriller featuring Robert De Niro, Sigourney Weaver, and Cillian Murphy, is now readily available for streaming for Amazon Prime Video subscribers.