The movie Complete Unknown, a 2016 psychological thriller starring Rachel Weisz and Michael Shannon, runs for a total of 91 minutes, or 1 hour and 31 minutes. This runtime allows the film to explore its themes of identity, reinvention, and the elusive nature of truth with deliberate pacing.
A Deeper Dive into Complete Unknown
Beyond simply knowing the runtime, understanding the film’s narrative structure and artistic choices can enhance your viewing experience. The movie’s relatively compact length is intentional, mirroring the film’s tight focus on the interactions between Alice (Weisz) and Tom (Shannon) over a single, pivotal night. This concentrated timeframe amplifies the tension and mystery surrounding Alice’s ever-shifting identities.
The duration contributes to the film’s overall impact by:
- Maintaining a sense of urgency and unpredictability.
- Preventing the narrative from becoming bogged down in unnecessary exposition.
- Forcing the viewer to actively engage with the ambiguous nature of Alice’s character.
The Art of Concise Storytelling
Many modern films, particularly those within the thriller genre, benefit from streamlined runtimes. Complete Unknown exemplifies this trend by delivering a complex and thought-provoking narrative in a lean, efficient manner. The script and direction work in tandem to maximize the impact of each scene, ensuring that every moment contributes to the overarching mystery.
The deliberate pacing, coupled with the film’s visual style, creates a captivating atmosphere that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. This mindful approach to storytelling highlights the importance of quality over quantity in filmmaking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Complete Unknown
Here are some frequently asked questions about the movie Complete Unknown, providing further insights into its production, themes, and critical reception.
H3: 1. Who Directed Complete Unknown?
The film was directed by Joshua Marston, known for his independent films that often explore complex human relationships and moral dilemmas. His previous works include Maria Full of Grace and The Forgiveness of Blood.
H3: 2. What is Complete Unknown About?
The film centers on Tom, whose mundane life is upended when he encounters Alice, a woman claiming to be a former acquaintance from his past. As the night progresses, Tom becomes increasingly obsessed with uncovering the truth about Alice and her constantly changing identities. It explores themes of identity, truth, and the possibility of radical personal transformation.
H3: 3. Where Can I Watch Complete Unknown?
Availability of Complete Unknown on streaming services varies by region. You can typically find it on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Vudu, either for purchase or rental. Check your local streaming service listings for current availability.
H3: 4. Who are the Main Actors in Complete Unknown?
The film stars Rachel Weisz as Alice and Michael Shannon as Tom. The supporting cast includes Kathy Bates, Danny Glover, and Chris Lowell.
H3: 5. What Genre Does Complete Unknown Belong To?
Complete Unknown is primarily classified as a psychological thriller. It also incorporates elements of drama and mystery, creating a suspenseful and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
H3: 6. Is Complete Unknown Based on a Book?
No, Complete Unknown is not based on a book. It is an original screenplay written by Joshua Marston and Julian Sheppard.
H3: 7. What are Some Similar Movies to Complete Unknown?
If you enjoyed Complete Unknown, you might also appreciate films that explore themes of identity, mystery, and psychological suspense, such as The Talented Mr. Ripley, Memento, The Machinist, Enemy, and Identity.
H3: 8. What is the Rating of Complete Unknown?
Complete Unknown is rated R for language.
H3: 9. Where Was Complete Unknown Filmed?
The movie was filmed primarily in New York City, utilizing various locations to create the urban backdrop for the story.
H3: 10. What are Some Critical Reviews of Complete Unknown?
Critical reception to Complete Unknown was mixed. Some reviewers praised the performances of Weisz and Shannon and the film’s intriguing premise, while others found the pacing slow and the ending unsatisfying. Many critics noted the film’s exploration of identity as its strongest point.
H3: 11. What is the Significance of the Title, Complete Unknown?
The title refers to the elusive and unknowable nature of Alice’s character. Her constantly changing identities and lack of a fixed past make her a “complete unknown,” even to those who think they know her. It also alludes to the existential questions about identity and the possibility of reinventing oneself.
H3: 12. Does Complete Unknown Have a Sequel?
No, Complete Unknown does not have a sequel, nor are there any plans for one. The film is a self-contained story that reaches a definitive, albeit ambiguous, conclusion.
The Enduring Appeal of Mystery and Identity
Complete Unknown, with its succinct 91-minute runtime, serves as a potent reminder of the power of concise storytelling. By focusing on the core themes of identity and the search for truth, the film delivers a memorable and thought-provoking cinematic experience. Its exploration of the human capacity for reinvention, coupled with strong performances from Weisz and Shannon, solidifies its place as a compelling entry in the psychological thriller genre. The film’s brevity enhances its impact, leaving viewers pondering the mysteries of Alice’s past and the nature of identity long after the credits roll.