Stay

In the 2005 psychological thriller 'Stay,' directed by Marc Forster, audiences are drawn into a surreal world where reality blurs with illusion. The film follows Sam Foster (Ewan McGregor), a psychiatrist tasked with treating a troubled young man named Henry Letham (Ryan Gosling), who claims he is planning to end his life in just three days. As Sam delves deeper into Henry's psyche, he finds himself ensnared in a web of haunting visions and unsettling truths. The film masterfully intertwines a labyrinth of dreams and subconscious fears, leading to a climax that challenges the boundaries of sanity. With striking cinematography and an atmospheric score, Stay invites viewers to question their own perceptions while exploring themes of loss, identity, and the fragility of the mind. It's a haunting journey that lingers long after the credits roll, making it a unique entry into the psychological thriller genre.

Critics' responses to Stay have been notably mixed, illustrating the film's polarizing nature. On Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a mere 26% approval rating, signaling that only a minority of critics found it favorable. 'The New York Times' remarked on the 'ambitious but muddled narrative,' expressing that it tries to achieve depth through visual style but often feels inaccessible to the audience. In contrast, Ewan McGregor's performance was frequently highlighted, with 'Rolling Stone' noting, 'McGregor's vulnerability shines, compelling viewers to stay engaged even as the plot twists confound.' IMDb users rated it at 6.7/10, suggesting that while many viewers appreciated the film's artistic ambition, others found it lacking in coherence. Over on Metacritic, it has a score of 41 out of 100, indicating generally unfavorable reviews. 'Variety' described it as 'cinematic poetry that may frustrate mainstream audiences,' while acknowledging its unique approach to storytelling. Ultimately, 'Stay' is a film that inspires both intrigue and dissent, marking it as a memorable piece for those who relish unconventional cinema.