
Director: Steven Soderbergh
Running Time: 98 Minutes
Starring: Claire Foy, Joshua Leonard, Jay Pharoah, Juno Temple, Aimee Mullins, Amy Irving, Polly McKie, Zach Cherry
In an effort to escape her stalker, Sawyer Valentini (Claire Foy) takes a new job in a new city. She seeks help from a consultant at a nearby hospital, where she confesses to contemplating suicide. After being advised to sign some papers, Sawyer unknowingly commits herself to spending 24 hours in a psychiatric ward, where she claims one of the orderlies is actually her stalker.
The draw of filmmaking was clearly too powerful for Steven Soderbergh to resist, as this marks his second released film since his supposed retirement just 5 years ago. This foray was especially notable, as he shot it in secret on an iPhone 7 Plus. Just like Sean Baker's Tangerine, this is a tactic which shows the capabilities of today's technology, working rather well. Not just a gimmick, this is an inspiring tool for aspiring filmmakers everywhere.

But after a certain point, the film settles on the mental state of Sawyer, which sees it change gears. This does result in it turning into a compelling two hander between Claire Foy and another cast member, but it also leaves the film entering more generic territory. In spite of some terrific moments, it grows more convoluted, and what remaining believability is thrown out of the window. A shame, as it was previously doing well with taking aim at the flawed health care system.
When Unsane works, it's a gripping thriller that leaves one on edge, powered by a tremendous lead performance. Steven Soderbergh does well to engross viewers, even if things stumble after a point.

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