Two caretakers maintain the lighthouse. The lead caretaker is played by William Dafoe and he has the keys to top most part of the lighthouse that has the great, shining light.

Video Review - Just left the theater (no spoilers)

He keeps that locked and away from the other caretaker, his employee, played by Robert Pattinson. The two men slowly and inexorably are drawn into madness.

This entire film is in black and white, which adds to the pictures of the violent ocean crashing against the rocks foreboding and sinister. And what is with the seagulls? It's like channeling The Birds. This is a strange and at times disorienting horror film. I liked how it is very different from other horror films being made today. Compare this to Countdown or even the most recent incarnation of Halloween and it's just an altogether fresh experience. Recommended for the creativity and experience.