Rethink Before Watching

Rating: 5/10 (10 July 2019)

I am at a loss for words. I want to give this film a high rating, I really do. The acting was stunning from Florence Pugh and the cinematography was a work of art, but I don't think that redeems the film from the traumatic and disturbing scenes that unfold throughout the film.
I still find myself unsettled by the events of the story. I felt like I needed a shower as I walked out of the theater, and as someone who can normally handle gore, violence, and demonic films, that is saying something.
While Ari Aster is obviously a master filmmaker, the question must be asked, "How far is too far?" I liked the idea of the cult and Sweden and all the main aspects of the story, I just don't understand why Ari had to be so chilling with the events of the film. The way they throw bodies around like they mean nothing is disturbing to me. I understand that's how the cult works, but something just felt wrong from a human moral standpoint. How could someone (Ari) have such a sick and twisted mind to come up with a story like this? It bothers and saddens me to know that this movie is being praised by others.
I hope people are able to see this review and possibly rethink their decision to see this film. Yes the acting was great. Yes the trailer made the film look amazing. But are the traumatic scenes you are about to watch worth it for the countless days those images will be burned in your head? To me, it's not worth it.