Surrealist and creepy "haunted town" tale

Rating: 8/10 (19 September 2009)

You might learn that this supernatural thriller comes from a video game but don't let it stop you from watching it. It's an adaptation that's actually decent and that works very well as a serious horror film. How did they manage that rare feat? It might be because they hired a talented french director (he did Brotherhood of the Wolf which you should see) who loved the original material and actually found it frightening (which it is). He even had to woo the notoriously protective Japanese producers (Konami) for years to be accepted. The guy was dedicated and he shoots some hellishly beautiful scenes. It might be because the story is engrossing and mysterious. It might be because the mostly unknown actresses (mostly a female cast in the major roles) play it very well and seriously.
It might be because the creatures are genuinely creepy and disturbing. I would say they're original and never seen before but actually most of them are concepts from the games brought to life. They were so good I thought they were computer-made but actually it's mostly actors, actually professional dancers, in suits and makeup. And let me tell you having dancers makes a huge difference in terms of having great creature movements that push them a notch above. It might be because it relies more on unnerving atmosphere, nightmarish visuals, dreamlike quality than jump surprises and gore for its scares. Mostly it might be so good because Silent Hill changed stuff but kept the spirit of the games (yes, that's a good thing). Silent Hill is no Resident Evil for those unfamiliar so don't expect zombies or something similar.
Some might have issues with the actions of the main character at the start before going into the town. I did too but then I thought about it (the day after) and realized she was doing this against her husband's will as a last ditch attempt to help her daughter. Still... it's a bit reckless and irrational. The other thing that might bug and confuse viewers is that Silent Hill leaves you with questions unanswered. Personally, I like that type of story where they do explain a lot but don't neatly tie up everything. The ending will certainly make you think and second guess. The film itself might even warrant a second viewing for better understanding. Overall, I was very pleasantly surprised at the quality of everything here. It should please horror fans whether or not they're fans of the games provided they watch it with an open mind not expecting their standard American slasher fest.
Rating: 8 out of 10