pacing is a problem, visuals are not!

Rating: 7/10 (26 February 2005)

I wont add a review of the films storyline as i would presume most people visiting this page have seen it, however i will concentrate on other aspects of the film. One thing that annoyed me was the pacing of the film, and a common problem of a lot of films-slow middle third. The film opens at breakneck pace, bombarding us with images and the merest of back story. When the film reaches it's middle third, it is mainly told in flashback, which is maybe not even needed for this type of film, this would enhance our fears and our attachment to the characters predicament instead of giving us choices in deciding if we feel sympathy for them. i am not all out for gore and torture, but if the film begins in this quick edited, quick visual style then when it slows down it becomes very apparent(whereas a film like Se7en, keeps pretty much the same tempo throughout) and hinders the films style. As has been said Cary Elwes is very poor in this movie, and his performance really spoils the dark oppressive nature of the film. Visually, although MTV style in parts, is very impressive. The torture scenes are more suggestive than you think, and looking back you realise how little actual gore you have seen, but thanks to some great production design and editing you are jolted into feeling real sympathy for the victims. Despite a few flaws this is still an excellent entry to the the thriller/horror genre and refreshing to see that it doesn't resort to any sly winking at the audience. I could see elements of Fulci and Argento in there, so it can't be all that bad!