Pretty much out the starting gate, it was clear - to me at least - that this was going to be an unpredictable ride to a climax where surely nothing was what it seemed. So far, so predictable for a manic trip on the cult status skyrocket. It was dark, twisted, and allegorical in a manner that teased those willing to try and figure it out. Stylistically, it was slightly derivative for this type of flick, but I think it was the right approach. And the clown character gave it a unique centre of gravity that set it apart. In a sub-genre that is overpopulated with slick, action-packed no-brain failures, this was a refreshing, wheel-screech of delight for those working within a limited budget. Well done.
Reviews
5 Reviews
Nr. 10
(2021)
What an ending !
13 April 2022
For me, the first half of the movie was light, mildly intriguing soap opera fayre. Thankfully, it completely changed direction, for those seeking something a little "fresher" and challenging. I went into this with just the description given at the top of the IMDB page. I strongly suggest you do the same - the less you know the better. However, the ending will definitely split the audience depending on your sensibility. I actually made a single loud clap at the final "surprise", which I never do. But others may find my reaction "disappointing", to say the least. You have been warned !
Skeletons
(2010)
A gimmick that hides something much more profound
10 April 2022
The idea of two guys acting as paid exorcists that remove "skeletons from closets" is what attracted me to the movie. But I had no idea where it would take me. Yes - it was original - and yes, it was off-beat and armed to the teeth with dry wit. Which are the kind of movies that I generally enjoy. But at its heart was something much more soulful. The concept of profound loss, and how it can affect us. The characters were all perfectly cast, with a special mention for the Danish actress, Paprika Steen, who I have long admired. For me the star was Ed Gaughan who carried his finely nuanced portrayal exquisitely. Of near equal merit was the perfect relationship/banter between him and his co-worker, played by Andrew Buckley. It is a rare treat that such a quirky plot device can carry such a sensitive issue so deftly. Exceptional.
The Outfit
(2022)
Slick if flawed
10 April 2022
A well-crafted thriller/mystery ensemble piece. I often wonder how these kind of movies should be paced. You can be really "clever" and give the audience little time to think, and simply allow them to be carried along with the wave of expositions/surprises/action without them really being involved. And then we kind of go "Oh I see", without really grasping fully what has happened, appreciating the plot holes, etc. Here at least they don't go for that easy route. Slow, nay deliberately paced, where you have plenty of time to soak it all in and chew over the winding tale. Some may say too much time. But at least it doesn't feel so gimmicky. There were some plot holes at key reveals that sadly tainted some of its cohesiveness, but it was still engaging nonetheless. Of course well-worn caricatures populate the small universe of this type of movie, so it must be hard to make someone appear what they are not. And this is where the plot struggles the most. But for a mystery set in a single location, it was admirable what it did manage.
Harper
(1966)
Interesting update of Marlow-like character
5 April 2022
What drew me into the movie was the early scene between Paul Newman's character and his soon to be employer, Lauren Bacall's character. The banter was wry and crisp - with definite nods to classic film noir/gumshoes. It became clear - to me at least - that this also had its tongue firmly in its cheek. Which kinda gave it an intriguing, somewhat unorthodox, uneasy charm. The plot itself was fairly standard with too few characters to not guess the "who" in its unravelling way ahead of schedule, although the details of "why" were smarter. I read elsewhere here that the Janet Leigh character wasn't in the novel upon which the movie is based - and that modification/artistic vision was its weakest point - and the movie made worse for it. The action scenes were not its strongest points either. What was faithful to the genre was that no character was really likeable, including Newman's. And sometimes the dialogue took advantage of that electricity, especially between Lauren Bacall and her daughter ("I can't be a narcissist and frigid"). The best scene - for me - was saved for last, which is always a nice way to end a movie. So all in all, a worthy if largely forgettable addition to the genre.
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