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Reviews
Le salaire de la peur (1953)
Masterclass in suspense
I can't believe I only just found this film, and I wish it had a higher profile. It's an incredible achievement in drama, suspense and storytelling. It's one of those films that I doubt could or would ever be made today, because of the way the medium and the expectations of the audience have evolved (or devolved).
It has a total disregard for satisfying or pandering to the audience, and instead presents a brutal, gritty reality streaked with tension and the highest of stakes. There were some areas that could have benefitted from a trim, but otherwise - what a ride! I intend to also check out 'Sorcerer' and hope that it doesn't sully my memory of this film.
Something (2018)
Makes you work for it, but I thought it was worth it
First off, if you're thinking about whether to watch this tonight, ask yourself are you in the mood to sit up and try and puzzle a story out or do you feel like vegging out and being entertained. If it's the latter, then skip this for now. Because this film doesn't spell it out, you have to work for it. The characters are having a hard time understanding what's happening, and I get the feeling the film wants you to as well. You shouldn't trust your eyes any more than they should. They do and say things that don't make sense at the time, but the good thing is it all becomes clear in the end.
It reminds me a little of a Black Mirror episode - not in the subject matter, or even the level of polish (don't get me wrong, this is a very low budget unpolished film) - but in the way it drops you into the scenario and doesn't hold your hand or feel the need to explain things, and yet there are clues along the way that are not really there for you to use at the time, but to look back on.
Is it scary? No not really. A few jumpy moments, but they're not particularly memorable. What it's more about is this weird feeling of unease that it just drips with, like something is wrong in there. And it bears mentioning that it's slooow in places, which is part of what gives it that atmosphere.
Without a doubt it could have done with a bit more budget, but I can overlook that and in the end I'm glad I gave it a chance and watched it.