melodramatic and more than a little overwrought, this nerve-jangling prison drama has a vividly theatrical style that plays up pulp-style grit along with almost fantastical psychological touches
it's competently acted and its mission is understood, but Fjellman doesn't provide a strong enough reason to make the journey with him, as much of "Caged" seems constructed to satisfy the helmer, not viewers
Edi Gathegi gives it his all in a conventional yet committed performance, but the film that surrounds him is regrettably uninterested in offering either narrative novelty or thematic clarity
"Caged" is well directed; The performances all the way around are excellent; for its searing look at mental deterioration in solitary confinement and ingrained racism in the prison system, Caged is an absolute must-watch, minor flaws and all