Is Island, Alicia Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1998)

📖 The Core Premise

With the release of Island, Alicia (1998), audiences are invited back into the world of Drama. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "Ken Yunome wrote and directed this lengthy (160 minutes) cinematic psychodrama that opens with 23-year-old Daniel (Jeff Miller) telling his shrink about a childhood sexual episode. After Daniel meets 40-year-old housewife Lena (Cheryl Aden) in a NYC bar, he goes to her Staten Island house and an affair begins, ending with her murder. Her estranged husband confesses to the crime and kills himself. Daniel then becomes involved in an intense sexual relationship with their daughter Alicia (Jane Jepson), who reveals her incestuous activities with her father. Shown in the Certain Regard section at the 1998 Cannes Film Festival."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. The performance by the ensemble cast is a highlight, bringing a palpable intensity to the screen. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Drama. While there are moments of brilliance, the pacing occasionally dips.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Island, Alicia worth your time? If you appreciate Drama films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 1998, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Island, Alicia is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 180 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.