Jacob's Ladder (1990) ****

In my previous review of Adrian Lyne's Jacob's Ladder (1990), I wrote that it's a beautiful and creepy film that ought to be held in higher regard. 10 years later, I believe the picture has found its audience and its appreciation has risen. I also previously mentioned that the movie deserved better treatment (visual/supplemental) on Blu-ray and, thankfully, that has come to fruition (the recently released 4K UHD features a great transfer and a slew of new and archival extras).

JL is filled with fantastic performances, unsettling effects, lush cinematography, brilliant editing, and a gorgeous score. The film has plenty of moments of terror and psychological horror, but at its heart it's a moody and meditative thriller. I love its languid pace, surreal atmosphere, and melancholic quality.

Recommended for fans of Angel Heart (1987) (review), The Exorcist III (1990) (review)The Silence Of The Lambs (1991) (review), and Se7en (1995) (review).


Comments