The scariest film I have ever seen, part of me wishes I had never seen it, or even heard of it, by any standards, this film is a masterpiece. Never have I felt so moved by a film, a film that one can consider Art of the highest order. Now, even days later this film will not leave my head, its deep unsettling message always at the surface of my consciousness. The film has done its job, rather too admirably.
Never have I left a cinema, totally stunned, the cinema audience during the closing credits were in total shock, there was near absolute silence which emphasized the sound of some people crying. This film was not a comfortable experience. Moodysson has punched us full in the face and we reel back in utter horror. This film makes the similar themed "Sex Traffic" (by Director David Yates) look like a fairytale in comparison.
Moodysson, Bergmans heir apparent (with a nod from the master himself I hear) is a genius, and I do not use this word lightly. Perhaps this film is so good though he can never better it, and this will always be known as his magnus opus. It is ironic (as has been said by earlier reviewers) that this film, a true reflection of a facet of society today, was produced not by a Russian or Eastern European director (who just wouldn't "get it"), but by a Swedish one, and one, who is utterly perceptive to the point of genius. Whilst Bergman dealt with abstractions this guy deals totally concretely.
Films like this reinforce my awareness of how much crap is spewed out of Hollywood. It makes me feel good that us Europeans produce perhaps the best intellectualized and socially relevant cinema in the world, and of course Sweden has this reputation because of the master, so it is fitting that the mantle is perhaps being passed to a worthy successor.
The Acting? First rate, no criticisms here, it does not get in the way of the message, I guess in many ways that is what is important here. It looks, feels real. Too real.
It is interesting that Ebert rates this only with three stars, and yet, in his review there is absolutely no criticism of this film, I believe his acceptance of this film as art of the highest order (and his disguised admiration, you know sometimes the old codger gets it right) has something to do with this. He might not like it, but he cannot help but admire it.
The closing sequence with the transition from life to death (with the throwing of the ball) is utterly moving, the eloquence, beauty and incredible cinematography, words cannot describe this. We at this moment are almost one with the film, a truly frightening experience conjured by a master of his craft.
Reminds me in some ways to the little known "Liten Ida" by Norwegian Director Laila Mikkelsen. If you can get it this film is well worth seeing, another underrated masterpiece.
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